04 June,2026 12:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pahlaj Nihalani (Pic/Google Images)
Veteran filmmaker and former Censor Board chief Pahlaj Nihalani has passed away at the age of 76. He was known for producing films like Ilzaam, Shola Aur Shabnam, Aankhen, and Andaz. Pahlaj Nihalani is survived by his wife, Nita, and his three sons, Vishal, Deepesh, and Chirag. His last rites will take place today (June 4).
As per India Today, he had reportedly been unwell for some time and was said to be suffering from liver-related health issues. The last rites will be performed at a crematorium in Santacruz, Mumbai, at 3 pm today.
The family's statement read, "With profound grief, we inform you of the passing of our beloved Pahlaj Nihalani on June 4, 2026. The cremation ceremony will be held today, June 4, 2026, at 3 pm at Santacruz Hindu Crematorium. We are grateful for your thoughts and prayers as we bid a final farewell."
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit took to Instagram to confirm the news of Pahlaj Nihalani's death. Sharing his picture, Ashoke wrote, "Sad to know about the demise of veteran film producer and industry leader, respected Pahlaj Nihalani ji, this morning due to a heart attack. He was a man who stood by the industry's causes and somebody who was responsible for making many hit films. A great loss to the industry. Will miss him and his dynamism. Om Shanti."
Nihalani was a well-known name in the Hindi film industry. He worked as a film producer and also served as the former chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Over the course of his career, he backed several Bollywood films, including Aankhen, Andaz, Talaash, Rangeela Raja, and Julie 2.
Nihalani began his career as a film producer in the early 1980s, with his debut production, Haathkadi, releasing in 1982, followed by Aandhi-Toofan in 1985. In 1986, he made one of his most notable contributions with Ilzaam, which marked the acting debut of Govinda. The following year, he produced Aag Hi Aag, which introduced Chunky Pandey to Hindi cinema.
Apart from film production, Nihalani also briefly ventured into direction. In 2012, he directed Avatar, which starred Govinda. He also made a cameo appearance in the 2008 film Halla Bol.
Pahlaj Nihalani headed the CBFC from 2015 to 2017, a period that frequently drew attention and debate over issues related to film censorship and certification.
