Anurag Kashyap on Censorship: Filmmaking in a New Era
🚨 Breaking Bollywood News Alert! Get the complete inside story. Updated December 23, 2025.
Anurag Kashyap says he can’t make a film like Ugly or Dev.D as they won’t pass the censors: ‘Political scenario has changed’
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🎬 Latest Development: Anurag Kashyap Laments Evolving Censorship: Why Films Like 'Ugly' and 'Dev.D' Are Now Impossible
Kashyap on India's Censor Challenges
📋 What You Need to Know
Anurag Kashyap, a name synonymous with gritty realism and groundbreaking storytelling in Indian cinema, has recently voiced significant concerns regarding the current state of film censorship in the country. Known for pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms through his works, Kashyap's candid admission that he would be unable to make films akin to his critically acclaimed 'Ugly' or 'Dev.D' today has sent ripples through the industry. His statement, attributing this shift to a drastically altered "political scenario," highlights a growing apprehension among filmmakers about creative freedom and expression. This development sparks crucial conversations about artistic integrity, the role of censorship, and the future trajectory of Indian cinema in an increasingly sensitive landscape.
🎭 Complete Story
In a recent revealing interview, acclaimed director Anurag Kashyap articulated his profound dismay over the tightening grip of censorship in India, asserting that the current climate effectively stifles the kind of bold, unfiltered narratives he's known for. Kashyap specifically cited two of his seminal works, 'Ugly' (2013) and 'Dev.D' (2009), as examples of films that would face insurmountable hurdles with today's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). His films, often characterized by their raw portrayal of complex human emotions, societal ills, and unconventional themes, are now, in his view, anachronisms in the contemporary Indian cinematic landscape. The director elaborated that the "political scenario has changed," implying a direct correlation between the sociopolitical environment and the CBFC's increased scrutiny and restrictive guidelines. This shift, according to Kashyap, isn't just about specific scenes or dialogues but extends to the very essence of a film's narrative and its underlying messages. He suggested that the willingness to engage with darker, more challenging subjects, or to present nuanced perspectives on controversial topics, is now met with a level of resistance that was less prevalent a decade ago. This sentiment resonates deeply within the filmmaking community, where many artists feel a palpable pressure to self-censor or dilute their creative vision to ensure their projects see the light of day. Kashyap's remarks underscore a broader anxiety about the shrinking space for artistic experimentation and critical commentary in a nation that prides itself on its democratic values.
📊 Industry Analysis
Anurag Kashyap's observations are not isolated; they echo a growing sentiment within the Indian film fraternity regarding the increasingly stringent approach of the CBFC and the broader cultural sensitivity towards cinematic content. Over the past few years, numerous films have encountered significant delays, forced cuts, or outright bans, often citing cultural sentiments, political sensitivities, or public order as reasons. This trend has led to a climate of apprehension, where filmmakers often resort to self-censorship during pre-production to avoid post-production battles. The economic implications are substantial; delays can lead to increased costs, while extensive cuts can compromise a film's artistic integrity and commercial viability. Furthermore, the perceived lack of clear, consistent guidelines from the CBFC creates an unpredictable environment, making it difficult for creators to navigate the approval process. Industry veterans note a shift from a certification body to what sometimes feels like a censorship board, challenging the very purpose of the CBFC, which is technically to certify films for different age groups rather than to censor content. This dynamic has sparked debates about the role of art in society, the balance between creative freedom and social responsibility, and the potential impact on India's global cinematic reputation, which thrives on its diverse storytelling.
💬 Expert Commentary
"Anurag Kashyap's statement is a stark reflection of the challenges contemporary Indian filmmakers face," comments Dr. Priya Sharma, a renowned film critic and cultural studies professor. "His early works, like 'Dev.D', redefined independent cinema by fearlessly exploring taboo subjects and complex characters. The ability to push such boundaries is crucial for artistic evolution. When a director of his caliber expresses such limitations, it signals a deeper issue within the industry." Film producer Mr. Rohan Mehta adds, "The economic realities are brutal. Every delay or cut costs money and affects distribution. Filmmakers often have to make compromises even before filming begins, just to ensure their project has a chance. It's a pragmatic decision born out of fear of obstruction, not a creative one. This inevitably leads to a homogenization of content, stifling innovation and diverse narratives. The industry needs a more transparent and artist-friendly certification process that balances freedom of expression with genuine societal concerns, rather than succumbing to fleeting political pressures."
🔗 Related Context
The debate around film censorship in India is not new, but Kashyap's remarks highlight its renewed intensity. Historically, Indian cinema has seen periods of strict censorship, particularly during politically sensitive times. Films like 'Aandhi' (1975) faced significant challenges during the Emergency, while others, such as 'Fire' (1996), sparked protests for their themes. More recently, films addressing social issues, historical events, or religious narratives have frequently found themselves embroiled in controversies, facing demands for cuts or bans from various groups. The ongoing discussions around the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which grants the government revisional powers over certified films, further exacerbate these fears, suggesting an even tighter leash on creative expression. This legislative push, coupled with an increasingly vocal and sometimes aggressive public discourse around film content, creates a challenging environment for filmmakers who aspire to tell stories that are bold, critical, or simply reflective of India's complex realities.
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🎯 Key Takeaways
Anurag Kashyap's candid revelation about the impossibility of making films like 'Ugly' or 'Dev.D' in today's India serves as a potent warning sign for the nation's cinematic future. His assertion that the "political scenario has changed" underscores a significant shift in the landscape of creative freedom, where stringent censorship and heightened sensitivities are increasingly dictating artistic output. This situation not only impacts individual filmmakers but also has broader implications for the diversity and depth of Indian storytelling, potentially limiting its global appeal and its ability to reflect contemporary society truthfully. As the industry grapples with these evolving challenges, there is an urgent need for constructive dialogue between filmmakers, the CBFC, and policymakers to establish a framework that champions creative expression while addressing genuine societal concerns. The future of Indian cinema depends on its ability to foster an environment where bold, challenging narratives can still thrive.
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