Shane Nigam’s upcoming film Haal faces a major release setback as the CBFC demands 15 cuts, including a controversial beef biryani scene. The makers have approached the Kerala High Court seeking intervention to secure the film’s certification.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
KOCHI: Shane Nigam’s romantic drama Haal is in serious trouble just before its release. The film, directed by Veera and written by Nishad K. Koya, has been caught in a censorship tangle after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) suggested a whopping 15 changes before granting certification.
CBFC’s Objections
According to the film’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), the CBFC raised objections to several portions of the movie, including scenes referencing Dhwaja Pranaman, Sangham kawal und, and one depicting the consumption of beef biryani.
However, the filmmakers have strongly denied the allegation that the movie features characters eating beef biryani. They called it a “mere assumption” by the CBFC and stated that there is no such explicit reference or depiction in the film.
If the makers agree to implement all the suggested changes, Haal is likely to receive an ‘A’ certificate from the Censor Board.
Makers Approach Kerala High Court
Unhappy with the CBFC’s decision and the delay in certification, the makers of Haal have approached the Kerala High Court seeking relief. As per the PRO, the first preview screening for the CBFC took place on September 10, but the certification process has since been stalled due to the board’s objections.
Release Crisis and Postponement
The ongoing dispute has pushed Haal into a release crisis. The movie was originally scheduled to hit theatres today, but due to the censorship delay and promotional setbacks, the release has been postponed.
Earlier this month, JVJ Productions, the official production banner behind Haal, had already hinted at a change in release plans through an Instagram post. The makers cited the need to avoid a clash with Shane Nigam’s other film, Balti, which was recently released in theatres.
“Both big-budget films starring Shane Nigam were approaching release around the same time, leading to the need for joint discussions. Although Haal was initially planned for a September release, delays in the censoring process and the inability to carry out adequate promotional campaigns on the scheduled date, combined with the proximity of Balti’s release, necessitated a new date,”
the producers wrote.
The Team Behind Haal
Besides Shane Nigam, Haal features Sakshi Vaidya and Johny Antony in key roles. The film promises to be a refreshing romantic drama, showcasing Nigam in yet another emotionally layered performance.
However, with the censorship roadblock and legal proceedings underway, fans will have to wait a little longer to see Haal on the big screen.
While Haal struggles with certification issues, Shane Nigam’s other film Balti, written and directed by debutant Unni Sivalingam, has successfully made its way to theatres. Fans are now keenly watching how the Haal controversy unfolds — and whether the Kerala High Court’s intervention will clear the path for its release.
