CBFC Asks Aamir Khan's 'Sitaare Zameen Par' To Add 'PM Modi' Quote: Social Media Slams Political Censorship
The makers of Sitaare Zameen Par have been directed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to include a quote from Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the film’s opening disclaimer, according to a Bollywood Hungama report.
The film, starring and produced by Aamir Khan under his Aamir Khan Productions banner, had earlier received clearance from the CBFC without any cuts. However, as per a report by Bollywood Hungama, the board later requested a series of modifications that temporarily put the film’s release in limbo.
Also, read| “Kuberaa Is Something I’ve Personally Never Done Before…,” Says Rashmika Mandanna Ahead Of The Big Release
As per reports, Aamir initially expressed dissatisfaction with the recommendations made by the CBFC’s Examining Committee. The matter was then escalated to the Revising Committee, headed by theatre personality and academic Waman Kendre, who watched the film and proposed a fresh round of edits.
Among the changes suggested were: Replacing the reference to “Michael Jackson” with “Lovebirds,” changing the term “Business Woman” to the more gender-neutral “Business Person,” and removing a visual that featured the word “kamal.”
In addition to these, the CBFC also asked the filmmakers to include a quote from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to be placed immediately after the film’s opening disclaimer.
Public frustration with the Indian Censor Board (CBFC) is growing due to its recent censorship actions. Initially meant to guide and certify films, the board is now seen as a tool for political control and selective morality, according to social media.
After implementing the recommended edits, Sitaare Zameen Par was granted a U/A 13+ certificate. The film is now set to hit theatres across the country on Friday, June 20.
Directed by RS Prasanna, the film stars Aamir Khan alongside Genelia Deshmukh and is billed as a spiritual sequel to the 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par, which also starred and was directed by Aamir. The film hits theatres on June 20.
Despite the certification hurdles, early signs for the box office are promising. According to data from trade portal Sacnilk, the film has already earned Rs 1.03 crore in bookings (excluding block seats), selling over 39,000 tickets nationwide for the opening day alone.
