The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) recently asked the makers of the Malayalam film Haal, starring Shane Nigam in the lead role, to remove certain scenes and dialogues from the film. The CBFC cited religious sensitivities for the changes. Subsequently, the Revising Committee, which granted the film an ‘A’ certificate, flagged certain scenes involving religion and culture, stating the film was not suitable for unrestricted public viewing. The filmmakers have now approached the Kerala High Court, challenging the board’s directive.

CBFC suggests changes

In a letter to producer Juby Thomas of JVJ Productions, the CBFC noted that the cuts and alterations specified in the annexure should be carried out before the certificate is issued. The annexure stated the removal of a song sequence where the character Maria is seen using Muslim attire to conceal her identity, the deletion of scenes stereotyping communities, such as a police interrogation of schoolboys along with a dialogue referring to Kannadigas. It also sought removal of dialogues and scenes affecting Christian sentiments.