CBFC Censors ‘Partial Nudity’ in Pathaan’s ‘Besharam Rang’?

It is reported that several aspects, including partial nudity, have been censored in Pathaan and its track ‘Besharam Rang’.

On the song’s release, some fans praised the chemistry between Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan.

However, many claimed the song was promoting vulgarity, citing Deepika’s revealing outfits and provocative dance moves.

A lot of criticism was directed towards Deepika’s saffron-coloured outfit.

As a result, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) instructed the filmmakers to make “changes” to the film and resubmit for clearance before its January 27, 2023, release date.

Details of the proposed changes have reportedly been revealed.

According to Bollywood Hungama, the CBFC had asked for more 10 cuts in the film.

The word ‘RAW’ has now allegedly been replaced with ‘Hamare’, ‘Langde Lulle’ was replaced with ‘Toote Foote’, ‘PM’ was changed to ‘President’ or ‘Minister’ and ‘PMO’ was removed in 13 places.

The ‘Ashok Chakra’ was replaced by ‘Veer Puraskar’, ‘ex-KGB’ with ‘ex-SBU’ and ‘Mrs Bharatmata’ with ‘Hamari Bharatmata’.

According to the report, the word ‘scotch’ was replaced by ‘drink’, while the text ‘Black Prison, Russia’ has been changed to simply read ‘Black Prison’.

‘Besharam Rang’ has also reportedly undergone three changes.

Deepika’s close-up shots of buttocks, side pose (partial nudity) and visuals of sensuous dance moves have been censored and replaced with “suitable shots”.

However, it is not known whether Deepika’s controversial outfit has been censored.

Speaking about the changes, CBFC chairman Prasoon Joshi said:

“Pathaan went through the due and thorough examining process as per the CBFC guidelines.

“The committee has guided the makers to implement the advised changes in the film including the songs and submit the revised version prior to theatrical release.

“CBFC is always committed to finding the right balance between creative expression and sensibility of the audience and believe that we can always find a solution through meaningful dialogue between all stakeholders.

“I must reiterate that our culture and faith is glorious, intricate and nuanced.

“And we have to be careful that it does not get defined by trivia which takes the focus away from the real and the true.”

“And like I have said earlier as well, that the trust between creators and audience is most important to protect and the creators should keep working towards it.”

Speaking about the controversial outfit in ‘Besharam Rang’, Mr Joshi said:

“As far as costume colours are concerned, the committee has stayed unbiased. When the film comes out the reflection of this balanced approach will be clear to everyone.”

It is reported that Pathaan has been granted a U/A certificate after these cuts.