Bollywood Stars Gather to Honor Pahlaj Nihalani at Prayer Meeting

Tributes Pour in for Pahlaj Nihalani

A number of prominent figures from the film industry, both established and emerging, attended a prayer ceremony for producer Pahlaj Nihalani, who sadly passed away on June 4 at Mumbai's Nanavati Hospital. His funeral was held later that day, drawing many actors and filmmakers who came to express their condolences. A prayer meeting took place on June 6 in his memory, where numerous stars who had collaborated with him gathered to pay their final respects.

Veteran Actors Remember Pahlaj Nihalani

Following the funeral, the film community reconvened for a prayer meeting organized by Nihalani's family in Juhu, Mumbai. Notable figures such as Hema Malini and Shatrughan Sinha were among the first to arrive to honor the late producer. Nihalani's debut production was Haathkadi in 1982, featuring Shatrughan in the lead role.

Later, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Farhan Akhtar with his wife Shibani Dandekar, Shweta Bachchan, Zoya Akhtar, Anupam Kher, and director David Dhawan were seen arriving to offer their condolences. Farhan had also attended Nihalani's funeral.

Other attendees included Fardeen Khan, Rajpal Yadav, Chunky Panday, Kritika Kamra, Rakesh Bedi, Raj Babbar, composer Anu Malik, FWICE chief advisor Ashoke Pandit, and Arhaan Khan, son of Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora, who also came to pay their respects.

About Pahlaj Nihalani

Throughout his career, Nihalani produced several notable films, including Ilzaam, which marked the debut of actor Govinda, as well as Aag Hi Aag, Andhiyan, Shola Aur Shabnam with David Dhawan, Aankhen, Dil Tere Diwana, and Julie 2. His last film, Rangeela Raja (2019), which he also wrote, featured Govinda once again.

During the funeral, an emotional Govinda remarked to the media, "Pahlaj Nihalani ji was a cornerstone for many of us." He noted that numerous artists who faced tough financial situations received his support and encouragement in the industry. Nihalani's time as chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) from January 2015 to August 2017 was marked by several controversies due to the introduction of new stringent guidelines for film censorship. He was succeeded by lyricist and poet Prasoon Joshi. Nihalani is survived by his wife, Nita, and sons Vishal and Chirag Nihalani.