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OTT Platforms to Stay Outside CBFC Oversight, Government Tells Lok Sabha

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

The Centre has reaffirmed that content streamed on over-the-top (OTT) platforms will not fall under the purview of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The clarification was given in the Lok Sabha in response to a query raised by MP Dr. M K Vishnu Prasad. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan stated that digital streaming content is regulated under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, and not through the film certification body. Under the existing framework, OTT platforms are mandated to adhere to a prescribed Code of Ethics. This includes complying with all applicable laws, refraining from prohibited content, and adopting age-based content classification to guide viewers. To monitor compliance, the IT Rules provide for a three-level regulatory mechanism. At the first level, publishers are responsible for self-regulation and addressing complaints related to their content. The second level involves oversight by self-regulatory bodies constituted by the publishers themselves. The third and final level empowers the Central Government to intervene when necessary. Complaints related to OTT content are initially handled by the concerned platform, allowing publishers to resolve issues internally in accordance with the IT Rules, 2021. Dr. Murugan highlighted that this multi-tier system is designed to strike a balance between safeguarding creative expression and ensuring legal accountability, with digital content regulation being managed through a structured grievance redressal process rather than CBFC certification. Source: Economic Times

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71st National Film Awards 2025: Full Winners List and Highlights

/ Article/Stories

The 71st National Film Awards, one of the most revered recognitions in Indian cinema, have been officially announced, honouring the best in filmmaking, performances, and technical brilliance from across the country. Known for their credibility and impartiality, the National Awards stand apart from other honours in the Indian film industry by prioritising artistic and cinematic excellence over commercial success. Administered by the Directorate of Film Festivals and presented by the President of India, these awards celebrate films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) during the previous calendar year (January 1 to December 31). A jury, consisting of noted film personalities, undertakes the task of screening entries and selecting winners across categories and languages. This year’s awards reflect a powerful blend of storytelling, technical achievement, and strong performances, cutting across regional and mainstream cinema. From high-profile Bollywood blockbusters to intimate regional dramas, the winners showcased the diversity and depth of Indian filmmaking. Major Acting Honours Best Actor was jointly awarded to Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan and Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail. This marked a significant milestone in Khan’s career as he bagged his first National Award for acting. Best Actress went to Rani Mukerji for her emotionally charged role in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, which highlighted the struggles of a mother caught in an international legal battle. Supporting Performances Recognised Best Supporting Actor honours were shared between Vijayaraghavan (Pookkalam) and Muthupettai Somu Bhaskar (Parking). Best Supporting Actress was jointly awarded to Urvashi (Ullozhukku) and Janaki Bodiwala (Vash). Top Feature Films by Language Best Feature Film overall: 12th Fail Best Hindi Film: Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery Best Telugu Film: Bhagavanth Kesari Best Tamil Film: Parking Best Malayalam Film: Ullozhukku Best Kannada Film: Kandeelu: The Ray of Hope Best Marathi Film: Shyamchi Aai Best Bengali Film: Deep Fridge Best Gujarati Film: Vash Best Punjabi Film: Godday Godday Chaa Best Odia Film: Pushkara Best Assamese Film: Rongatapu 1982 These selections showcase the cultural and linguistic diversity of Indian cinema, reaffirming the National Film Awards’ commitment to inclusivity. Technical Excellence and Direction Best Director: Sudipto Sen for The Kerala Story, praised for its bold narrative and technical finesse. Best Choreography: Vaibhavi Merchant for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani Best Action Direction: Nandu and Prudhvi for Hanu-Man Best Lyrics: Kasarla Shyam for Balagam Best Music Direction: G.V. Prakash Kumar (Songs) for Vaathi Harshavardhan Rameshwar (Background Score) for Animal Performance in Music and Sound Best Male Playback Singer: P.V.N. S. Rohit for Baby Best Female Playback Singer: Shilpa Rao for Jawan Best Sound Design: Sachin Sudhakaran & Hariharan for Animal Other Key Technical Awards Best Cinematography: Prasanthanu Mohapatra for The Kerala Story Best Editing: Midhun Murali for Pookkaalam Best Production Design: Mohandas for 2018 – Everyone is a Hero Best Makeup: Shrikanth Desai for Sam Bahadur Best Costume Design: Sachin, Divya, Nidhhi for Sam Bahadur Special Mention: M.R. Radhakrishnan (Re-recording mixer) for Animal Final Thoughts The 71st National Film Awards not only celebrated artistic and cinematic triumphs but also reflected the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where regional films continue to shine alongside mainstream blockbusters. The event acknowledged both legendary figures and fresh voices, reinforcing the relevance of storytelling that resonates across audiences and regions. Shah Rukh Khan’s long-awaited National Award win and the sweeping recognition for 12th Fail stood out as emotional and symbolic moments, while the inclusion of underrepresented languages and filmmakers demonstrated the Awards’ commitment to embracing India’s cinematic mosaic.

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Makers of Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ Approach Bombay High Court Seeking Film Release

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

The makers of Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency have approached the Bombay High Court, seeking its release and a censor certificate. Co-produced by Zee Entertainment Enterprises, the petition was filed on Wednesday, accusing the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) of arbitrarily withholding the censor certificate. According to the plea, the CBFC is allegedly ready with the certificate but has refrained from issuing it. The plea was mentioned before a division bench of Justices B.P. Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla, who agreed to hear the case later in the day. Originally slated for release on September 6, the film’s launch was postponed indefinitely following objections from Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal. The groups accused the movie of misrepresenting the community and distorting historical facts, sparking controversy around its content. Directed and co-produced by Kangana Ranaut, who also plays the lead role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the biographical drama has faced significant backlash. Ranaut, a BJP MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, expressed disappointment over the delay, accusing authorities of imposing an “Emergency” on her movie. Reacting to the postponement, Ranaut stated, “It’s a very hopeless state. I’m quite disappointed by our country and the circumstances.” She argued that the events depicted in her film are not new, referencing other films like Madhur Bhandarkar’s Indu Sarkar and Meghna Gulzar’s Sam Bahadur, which portrayed similar historical episodes. Determined to release her film uncut, Ranaut vowed to fight the legal battle, stating, “I’ve made this film with a lot of self-respect, which is why the CBFC can’t point out any contention… I’ll fight in court and release an uncut version.” Source: Hindustan Times

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CBFC Approves Ajay Devgn’s “Maidaan” Unedited, Requests Additions

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has granted clearance to Ajay Devgn’s upcoming movie “Maidaan” without any cuts. Based on a real-life incident and featuring Devgn as a football coach, the film spans over three hours in duration. No edits were requested by the CBFC for the film directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma. However, the board has mandated a few additions to the movie. Among these additions is a disclaimer stipulating that “Maidaan” is a fictionalized account inspired by true events from the public domain, legendary football players’ perspectives, and writers’ research, with elements of fiction added for dramatic effect. The disclaimer also clarifies that certain dialogues are for dramatic purposes only and not intended to incite lawlessness. Additionally, the film must include anti-smoking messages during scenes depicting characters smoking, as per CBFC guidelines. Furthermore, the end credits are required to be presented in both Hindi and English. According to reports, the film’s runtime is 3 hours, 1 minute, and 30 seconds (181.30 minutes). “Maidaan” narrates the story of Syed Abdul Rahim, portrayed by Devgn, who served as a prominent football coach and manager of the Indian football team, contributing significantly to the advancement of Indian football. The movie also stars Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and Rudranil Ghosh in pivotal roles. Despite facing numerous delays since its inception, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 lockdown and cyclones, “Maidaan” is set to hit theaters on April 10, coinciding with the release of “Bade Miyaan Chhote Miyan.”  

CBFC Approves Ajay Devgn’s “Maidaan” Unedited, Requests Additions Read More »