Author: HNU TEAM

Indian Censor Board is famous for banning a lot of films. Many films are banned based on their sexually explicit content, crude language, substance abuse, or if they have potential to disrupt the harmony of the society. There have been several other films in cinematic history that actually never made it to Indian screens.

Let’s take a look at some of the most critically acclaimed works which were stalled by the Censor Board of India.
1) Kamasutra

This masterpiece by Mira Nair received great critical acclaim all over but sadly, was halted by the Censors due to it being ‘too explicit’ and ‘immoral.’ Ironic, isn’t it? It’s not as if Kamasutra originated IN INDIA?
2) Water

A film that dared to look into the lives of widows in India; ‘Water’ was banned by the censors simply because it highlighted issues like ostracism and misogyny.
3) Gandu

This black and white Bengali ‘rap musical’ was banned for its explicit sex scenes and use of drugs. But the film is a great watch, story-wise! *he he he*
4) Firaaq

This was a film which dealt with the Gujarat riots and the Hindu-Muslim communal hatred. Despite receiving great reviews, the film got banned.
5) Fire

Deepa Mehta’s ‘Fire’ featured a lesbian relationship between two sisters-in-laws! This was just too much for the Censor Board to handle!
6) Sins

It dealt with the struggles of a Catholic Kairali priest who gets sexually involved with a woman. Not only did the Censor Board get offended, but the Catholics also protested against the film.
7) Unfreedom

The latest film to come under the Censor Board scanner, this film features a lesbian relationship, with an Islamic terrorism angle to it! This mix was simply too much for the Censors and it was allowed to release in only a few of the Indian States.