Censor Board of India 'is flagging RSS ideology' in releasing Malayalam film 'Haal'

By Syed Ali Mujtaba* 

The Malayalam film "Haal" has come under scrutiny by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), not for vulgarity or violence, but for allegedly failing to align with the ideological framework of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Critics argue that the CBFC’s increasing alignment with Hindutva ideology is eroding its independence and compromising the freedom of expression. Once considered an autonomous body, the CBFC now appears to be functioning under the influence of the Sangh Parivar.

"Haal" is a romantic musical starring Shane Nigam and Sakshi Vaidya, written by Nishad K. Koya and directed by debutant Veera. The film centers on an interfaith marriage between a Hindu woman and a Muslim man, promoting the idea that such unions can thrive peacefully if both partners respect each other’s religious beliefs.

Set against the backdrop of a society fractured along communal lines, "Haal" explores the emotional and social challenges faced by interfaith couples. Its message resonates with the spirit of the Indian Constitution and the Special Marriage Act of 1955, advocating for communal harmony and the triumph of love over prejudice.

However, the CBFC has objected to several scenes, citing concerns over "religious sensitivities and socio-cultural dynamics." One such scene shows the couple enjoying beef biryani—a dish common in South India, typically made with buffalo meat. In states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, beef biryani is consumed by Hindus, Christians, and Muslims alike. The CBFC’s demand to remove this scene reflects a lack of understanding of regional culinary traditions and an ideological bias against practices disapproved by the RSS.

Another contested scene features characters wearing the kalava (or mauli), a red-and-yellow sacred thread often associated with RSS members. The board has also objected to a character uttering "Dhwaja Pranamam," a salute to the saffron RSS flag. Additionally, the CBFC has asked the filmmakers to change the name of Sulthan Bathery—a town in Kerala with historical ties to Tipu Sultan—to Ganapathyvattam, its pre-colonial name.

The board has further demanded the removal of a scene in which a character uses a burqa to conceal her identity. These objections have led the CBFC to claim that the film carries a hidden agenda, and even after suggested cuts, it has offered only an "A" certificate.

Made on a budget of ₹16 crore, "Haal" now faces an uncertain future. Its release has already been postponed twice—first on September 19 and then on October 10. With certification still pending, the producers have approached the Kerala High Court, seeking intervention from the Union government.

Initially submitted to the CBFC’s regional office in Thiruvananthapuram, the film was deemed fit for screening. However, it was later forwarded to the review committee in Mumbai, raising questions about procedural transparency.

The CBFC’s objections suggest a troubling shift toward ideological policing in film certification. By targeting narratives that promote interfaith harmony and constitutional values, the board risks undermining artistic freedom and democratic principles.

This trend is particularly concerning for younger audiences, who deserve exposure to stories of peaceful coexistence. The CBFC’s stance appears to negate the legal protections offered by the Special Marriage Act, threatening the legitimacy of interfaith unions.

Such ideological interference must be challenged. Those advancing Hindutva interests through censorship should be held accountable, and the media must play a role in exposing these influences to safeguard creative expression in India.

The CBFC, a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, is reportedly facing increased pressure from groups aligned with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, which has ideological roots in the RSS. Allegations of bias have surfaced in recent cases.

In April 2025, the film "Phule" was delayed following objections from Brahmin groups, with reports indicating that the board demanded edits to dialogue. In July 2025, the Kerala High Court intervened after the CBFC denied certification to "JSK: Janaki V v/s State of Kerala," objecting to the protagonist’s name and prompting a legal battle over arbitrary reasoning.

These incidents point to a pattern of ideological and political influence over the CBFC’s decisions. The board is increasingly seen as a "moral tribunal" rather than an impartial certifying authority. Critics warn that its role is shifting from regulating morality to enforcing Hindutva ideology—a development that threatens the very foundation of artistic freedom in India.

---

*Journalist based in Chennai