CBFC Responds to Reports of 72 Hoorain Trailer Certification Issue, Clarifying that the Matter is Under Due Process
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has clarified that the trailer of the film 72 Hoorain has not been denied certification. The CBFC issued a statement after co-producer Ashoke Pandit alleged that the censor board had refused to certify the trailer of the movie, which is scheduled for release on July 7.
The CBFC said that the makers of the film had applied for certification of the trailer on June 19. The trailer was examined in accordance with the guidelines issued under Section 5B(2) of the Cinematograph Act, 1952. After reviewing the trailer, the CBFC requested certain modifications from the applicant, which were communicated through a show-cause notice issued on June 27.
The matter is currently pending the applicant’s response and compliance with the modifications suggested. Therefore, the CBFC emphasized that any misleading reports should not be entertained or circulated while the matter is still under due process. The CBFC also said that the film 72 Hoorain had already been granted an “A” certificate in October 2019. Ashoke Pandit had expressed his disappointment in a video message, criticizing the CBFC for hindering their creative independence and freedom of expression. He highlighted the irony of the film receiving accolades such as a National Award and recognition at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), while the trailer was denied certification.
The film, which is directed by Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan, features Pavan Malhotra and Aamir Bashir in the lead roles. It delves into the consequences of violent extremism and garnered critical acclaim, earning Chauhan the National Film Award for Best Direction in 2021.
The CBFC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It is responsible for certifying films for public exhibition in India. The CBFC has a set of guidelines that films must adhere to in order to be certified. The CBFC can grant a film one of four certificates: U, UA, A, or S.
