The India Story Gets CBFC Clearance After 25 Changes Director Reacts to the Decision
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has finally given the clearance after asking the makers to make 25 modifications. The entire team had a last-minute challenge as the certification came just before the theatrical release of the film, said director Chetan DK.
The filmmaker said that the production team had to make all the necessary alterations in a very small amount of time after receiving the recommendations from the CBFC. “It was disheartening. But there was no option for the makers. They had to go by the book if they wanted the film to release on time,” he said.
Why did the CBFC require 25 changes in the India Story?
According to reports, the CBFC had suggested 25 changes before granting the final certificate. The complete list has not been officially released but the changes reportedly involved edits to some visuals, dialogues and references deemed necessary by the certification board.
The movie had been sent for certification in June, but it is said to have been screened only in mid-July. The list of the required changes was communicated around July 20, giving the makers a short window to do editing, technical work and final approval before release.
Director Chetan DK said after the clearance?
Director Chetan DK said the certification process was extremely stressful given the short timeline. He said the team worked around the clock to carry out all the changes needed so the release is not delayed.
Interestingly, earlier this month the director said the film was not asked to remove scenes and some refinements were made voluntarily. However, the final process of certification required 25 changes as directed by the CBFC, before it was given clearance.
What is the story of India
The India Story stars Shreyas Talpade and Kajal A. Kitchlu and talks about issues related to the use of pesticides in agriculture and the possible impact on public health. The film had already attracted attention before its release due to legal objections over some of its claims in its promotional material, so its CBFC certification was closely watched.
The makers feel the film highlights a pertinent social issue and they hope people will now concentrate on the message of the film, rather than the controversy that has been created over its certification.
So what’s this mean for the film’s release?
The film has been cleared by the CBFC and is all set for its theatrical release. The certification process was additional work and time pressure, but clearance removes the final regulatory obstacle.
It also highlights a broader problem facing filmmakers when certification decisions are made late in the game. Last minute edits can mean new post-production work, new digital prints and new deliveries to cinemas, adding to costs and logistical pressure.
But the makers have gone ahead with the release and are now waiting for the audience’s reaction to the film and its central message.
References
The Times of India – The India Story gets CBFC clearance after 25 changes. Director Chetan DK reports disappointing process
Midday – Discussed the certification timeline, including the delayed screening and the tight deadline to complete 25 changes.
India Today – Provided the background of the film, earlier legal notice and comments made by the director earlier on CBFC certification.
