Shane Nigam’s ‘Haal’ Denied Certification by CBFC Over Controversial Scenes

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has refused to clear Haal, the upcoming Malayalam film starring Shane Nigam, citing objectionable content in several scenes. The board reportedly raised concerns over a sequence depicting the consumption of beef biryani and certain dialogues referencing “Dhwaja Pranaman” and “Sangham kawal und.” The CBFC has suggested 15 modifications before reconsidering the film for certification.

Directed by Veera and written by Nishad K Koya, Haal also features Sakshi Vaidya and Johny Antony in key roles. The film’s producers, however, have contested the CBFC’s claims, asserting that the controversial food item shown was not beef biryani, as assumed by the board. They argued that the objections were based on misinterpretation rather than factual content.

Following the CBFC’s decision, the film’s makers have approached the Kerala High Court, challenging the refusal to certify the movie. Sources indicate that if the recommended changes are implemented, the film may be granted an “A” certificate, allowing it to be screened for adult audiences.

The controversy has reignited the debate over censorship and artistic freedom in Indian cinema. Critics argue that the CBFC’s insistence on altering cultural or food-related references reflects excessive interference in creative expression. The Haal team maintains that their intention was to portray realism and cultural diversity, not provoke controversy.

Haal, which had earlier postponed its release to avoid clashing with Nigam’s other project, Balti, now faces further delays due to the certification dispute. The outcome of the High Court petition will determine whether the film can release without the suggested cuts. The case adds to a growing list of Malayalam and Indian films facing regulatory challenges over perceived sensitivities in dialogue and visual content.