The filmmaker initially entered the entertainment industry in January 1950.

Veteran Bollywood film producer and controversial former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani has passed away at the age of 76. The tragic news was officially confirmed on Thursday by his close associate Shashi Ranjan, following a prolonged battle with liver-related health complications.

Offering an immediate official tribute from the regulatory body, the current CBFC Chairperson Shashi Shekhar Vempati extended heartfelt condolences on social media platforms. Writing on behalf of the entire administrative organization, Vempati expressed deep grief, sending solidarity to Nihalani's surviving family, including his wife Neeta and their three sons.

The filmmaker initially entered the entertainment industry in January 1950 and rapidly expanded his professional banner by launching his independent commercial production debut with the 1982 release Hathkadi. His career subsequently scaled new heights as he produced major mainstream cinematic blockbusters, including Shola Aur Shabnam and Aankhen.

Nihalani’s administrative legacy remains defined by a deeply polarizing approach toward national film censorship guidelines. During his prominent tenure from January 2015 to August 2017, he famously implemented rigorous, conservative directives that barred explicit language even within adult-certified features, heavily trimming content to safeguard religious sentiments.

Concluding his multi-decade cinematic contribution, Nihalani is most fondly remembered across the film fraternity as a visionary star maker who actively launched major actors. He is widely celebrated for discovering and giving actor Govinda his first historic blockbuster break in the 1986 film Ilzaam, alongside introducing Chunky Panday in Aag Hi Aag.