CBFC Cuts Words like ‘Pradhan Mantri’ & ‘Chaiwala’ from Murderbaad: A Benign Joke or a Political Statement?
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has been in the spotlight recently for its seemingly absurd decisions regarding Indian films. The latest instance is the editing of words like ‘pradhan mantri’ and ‘chaiwala’ from the dialogue of the upcoming film, Murderbaad. The director, Arnab Chatterjee, has expressed his disappointment and frustration with the CBFC’s decision, stating that it was a benign joke and an aspirational remark for the lower-middle class of our country.
Murderbaad, a thriller film, has received an ‘A’ certification from the CBFC. However, before granting the certificate, the board instructed the makers to make significant changes to the dialogue. The words in question, ‘pradhan mantri’ and ‘chaiwala’, were part of a scene where a character is trying to make a point about being a small-time tea vendor, but harbouring big aspirations to become the Prime Minister one day. The scene was meant to be a joke, poking fun at the idea that even the most ordinary people can have lofty ambitions.
The CBFC’s decision to cut these words from the dialogue has left many questioning the board’s motives and the reasoning behind it. Chatterjee, the director, has expressed his disappointment, saying that the joke was never meant to be taken seriously and was not a political statement. He believes that the CBFC’s decision is a classic case of over-caution, and that it has stifled the creativity and freedom of expression that filmmakers should have.
The controversy surrounding Murderbaad’s certification is not the first of its kind. In recent years, the CBFC has been criticized for its strict guidelines and seemingly arbitrary decisions. The board has been accused of being overly sensitive to religious and political sentiments, and of stifling creativity and artistic expression.
The CBFC’s decision to cut the words ‘pradhan mantri’ and ‘chaiwala’ from Murderbaad’s dialogue raises several questions. What is the purpose of such cuts? Is it to avoid offending certain groups or individuals, or is it an attempt to control the narrative and dictate what kind of content is acceptable? The board’s decision has sparked a debate about censorship and the role of the CBFC in Indian cinema.
In a country as diverse and complex as India, censorship can be a delicate issue. While it is important to ensure that films do not promote violence, hatred, or discrimination, it is equally important to allow filmmakers the freedom to express themselves and explore complex themes and issues. The CBFC’s decision to cut words like ‘pradhan mantri’ and ‘chaiwala’ from Murderbaad’s dialogue raises concerns about the board’s ability to make informed and nuanced decisions.
The CBFC’s decision has also sparked a debate about the role of satire and humor in Indian cinema. Satire and humor can be powerful tools for social commentary and critique, and can help to bring attention to important issues and challenges. However, the CBFC’s decision to cut the words in question raises questions about whether the board is willing to allow filmmakers to use satire and humor to critique the political and social status quo.
In conclusion, the CBFC’s decision to cut words like ‘pradhan mantri’ and ‘chaiwala’ from Murderbaad’s dialogue is a classic case of over-caution and a lack of understanding of the nuances of satire and humor. The board’s decision raises concerns about the role of censorship in Indian cinema and the ability of filmmakers to express themselves freely. It also highlights the need for the CBFC to be more nuanced and informed in its decisions, and to allow filmmakers the freedom to explore complex themes and issues without fear of censorship.
