13 March,2026 03:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
CBFC row
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has introduced a new rule that will change how films are submitted for certification in India. Starting March 15, all Indian films must include subtitles as part of the certification process, a move aimed at making cinema more accessible and inclusive for a wider audience.
Under the new directive, filmmakers will be required to submit films with subtitles when applying for certification through the government's digital platform, EâÂÂCinepramaan. The rule means that producers can no longer submit films without subtitles while seeking certification from the board.
The decision is intended to improve accessibility for viewers who may find it difficult to understand spoken dialogue. Subtitles help audiences follow conversations more easily, especially in films that include multiple languages, strong regional accents, or fast-paced dialogue. They can also assist viewers who are hearing-impaired, allowing them to better engage with the story.
Industry observers say the move could also expand the reach of Indian films across different regions. With subtitles available, audiences who do not understand the original language of a film will still be able to enjoy it. This may help movies travel more easily between linguistic markets within the country, where films from one region are increasingly watched by viewers from another.
The rule also aligns theatrical releases more closely with the practices already followed by streaming platforms. On many OTT services, subtitles are now a standard feature, helping viewers watch content comfortably regardless of language or background. By introducing a similar requirement for theatrical releases, the CBFC hopes to bring the cinema experience in line with evolving global standards.
However, the announcement has sparked some discussion within the film industry. While many people have welcomed the focus on accessibility, others have raised concerns about the practical aspects of the rule. Some filmmakers believe mandatory subtitles could slightly affect the visual presentation of certain scenes, especially in films that rely heavily on visual storytelling.
There are also concerns about the additional time and technical effort required to prepare subtitles before submitting films for certification. Smaller production houses, in particular, may need to allocate extra resources to ensure subtitles are properly created and synced.
Despite the debate, the new rule marks an important step toward making cinema more inclusive. By ensuring that every film submitted for certification includes subtitles, the CBFC aims to make the theatrical experience more accessible for a broader section of the audience while adapting to changing viewing habits.
