What’s New in Indian Cinema? Meet the Revamped CBFC Board!
Revitalization of the CBFC
The Indian government has taken a significant step by reconstituting the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), introducing an 18-member panel that includes notable personalities from the film and music sectors. This marks the first substantial change to the board in over six years, following the end of the previous panel's three-year term in 2020.
The newly formed board, which will operate for three years or until further notice from the government, is led by Shashi Shekhar Vempati. The diverse group of members includes well-known actors such as Preity Zinta, Pankaj Tripathi, Suniel Shetty, Rupali Ganguly, Manoj Joshi, Nishigandha Wad, and Pallavi Joshi. Additionally, the panel features filmmakers like Priyadarshan, Nila Madhab Panda, and Abhishek Jain, along with Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej, Bengali cinema icon Prosenjit Chatterjee, singer Hans Raj Hans, producer Supriya Yarlagadda, and writer Yatindra Mishra.
Understanding the New Board's Framework
The reconstitution aligns with the newly introduced Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, which require the board to meet at least once every quarter. Although the previous board continued its operations past its 2020 expiration due to provisions allowing members to stay until successors were appointed, this new assembly signifies a notable change in its composition. Only two members from the former board, theatre director Waman Kendre and writer Ramesh Patange, have been retained.
The selection of new members showcases a wide representation of the Indian entertainment landscape, covering regional cinema, theatre, and music. Operating as a statutory body under the Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry, the board is responsible for certifying films for public viewing. The appointment process adhered to the guidelines set forth by the Cinematograph Act of 1952 and the updated certification rules of 2024.
The transition in leadership commenced earlier this year when Shashi Shekhar Vempati, the former CEO of Prasar Bharati, was appointed chairperson, succeeding lyricist Prasoon Joshi. With the new panel established, the CBFC is anticipated to uphold its quarterly meeting schedule as mandated by current regulations. The government's decision to finalize this 18-member board follows the first meeting held in six years on August 29, indicating a commitment to more consistent oversight of film certification in India.