Indian Censor Board ‘Advises Changes’ to Pathaan

The Indian Censor Board has asked for various changes to be made to Pathaan before it is released, amid the controversy over the song ‘Besharam Rang’.

According to reports, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has instructed the filmmakers to make “changes” to the movie and resubmit for clearance before its January 27, 2023, release date.

In a statement, CBFC Chairman Prasoon Joshi said:

“Pathaan went through the due and thorough examination process as per the CBFC guidelines.

“The committee has guided the makers to implement the advised changes in the film including the songs and submit the revised version before theatrical release.

“CBFC is always committed to finding the right balance between creative expression and sensibility of the audience.

“We believe that we can always find solutions through meaningful dialogue between all stakeholders.

“Whilst the process is getting duly followed and implemented I must reiterate that our culture and faith are glorious, intricate and nuanced.

“We have to be careful that it does not get defined by trivia which takes the focus away from the real and the true.

“And like I have said earlier as well, that the trust between creators and audience is most important to protect and the creators should keep working towards it.”

On December 12, 2022, Besharam Rang was released online and it quickly gained popularity due to its controversial usage of costume and dancing.

While many people enjoyed the upbeat music, some considered the song offensive because of the saffron outfit worn by Deepika Padukone.

A few days after the song was released, Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra voiced his objection to the song’s usage of saffron costumes.

Addressing the media, he said there were certain offensive moments in the music video and threatened to have Pathaan banned from Madhya Pradesh if they weren’t changed.

He said: “The costumes in the song at first glance are objectionable.

“It is clearly visible that the song of the film Pathaan has been shot with a dirty mindset.

“I don’t think this is right, and I will tell the director and makers of the film to fix it.”

“Earlier also Deepika Padukone came in the support of Tukde Tukde Gang at JNU and that’s why her mentality has come in front of everyone before.

“And that is why I believe that the name of this song ‘Besharam Rang’ is also objectionable in itself and the way saffron and green have been worn, the colours of the song, the lyrics and the title of the film are not peaceful.

“It needs improvement. If it is not done, then we will consider whether its telecast should be allowed in Madhya Pradesh.

“Now let’s see, so far all those who have been asked have improved. If it’s not done then we will consider.”