Hollywood
Subhash K Jha (DNA; August 20, 2015)

With recent Hollywood films like Get Hard, Vacation and 50 Shades Of Grey getting the full censorial treatment, is it time for Hollywood to get seriously worried about its future in India? In fact, Get Hard and 50 Shades Of Grey have decided to stay out of India altogether.

We asked the CEO of Central Board of Film Certification — Shravan Kumar to comment on the future of Hollywood films in India. He says, “It is not possible for me to comment on their voluntary decision, since I am not privy to the reasons behind the same. But, I can only state that there’s an elaborate process of certification in place at CBFC and any apprehension of creative dilution is unfounded.”

There are songs that have not been censored but have double meanings that children are watching today, while regular cuss words that are a part of society have been banned. How does the censor board decide on such issues?

Explains Kumar, “The guiding principles of certification laid down under section 5B(2) are available on the CBFC website wherein it is clearly enunciated that a film is judged in its entirety from the point of view of its overall impact keeping in mind the period, contemporary milieu and the level of audience. These are followed by the members of the committee at EC (Examining Committee) and RC (Revising Committee) individually in their recommendation and are also adhered to at the time of making collective decision by the Board. If there are any deviations, then the system provides for remedy and there is also an alternative recourse to appeal to FCAT (Film Certification Appellate Tribunal). Putting restrictions on creative freedom is beyond the scope of certification. Due care is also taken to appreciate artistic expression and human sensibilities as well.”