Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood film producer and former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani passed away at the age of 76 on Wednesday morning at his residence in Mumbai. The news of Pahlaj Nihalani death has left the Indian film industry in mourning, as tributes continue to pour in for the influential filmmaker.
Pahlaj Nihalani Death Confirmed at Mumbai Residence
According to reports, Pahlaj Nihalani death occurred at around 9:30 am at his home in Mumbai. He had reportedly been suffering from liver-related complications for the past few months. Although he was recently discharged from the hospital, his health continued to deteriorate.
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The exact cause of Pahlaj Nihalani death has not been officially confirmed by the family, but sources indicate ongoing medical issues contributed to his condition.
Family Issues Official Statement
Following the news of Pahlaj Nihalani death, his family released an official statement expressing deep grief and informing about the last rites. The statement confirmed that the cremation would take place at 3 pm at Santacruz Hindu Crematorium in Mumbai.
The family also thanked well-wishers for their prayers and support during this difficult time.
Illness and Final Days
Reports suggest that Pahlaj Nihalani death came shortly after he was discharged from the hospital the previous night. He had been under medical supervision for nearly 1–1.5 months due to liver-related complications.
Close associates revealed that although he was not suffering from a heart attack, his overall health had been fragile for some time.
Legacy in Indian Cinema
The news of Pahlaj Nihalani death marks the end of an era in Bollywood. He was known for producing several successful films including Aankhen, Andaz, Talaash, Rangeela Raja, and Julie 2. His first production, Haathkadi (1982), was followed by Aandhi-Toofan (1985).
Beyond filmmaking, Nihalani also served as CBFC chairperson from 2015 to 2017, a tenure that drew both attention and controversy for his strict censorship decisions.
He also produced the widely discussed promotional song Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.
Industry Mourns Loss
The Pahlaj Nihalani death has triggered an outpouring of grief across the Indian film industry. Filmmakers, actors, and colleagues remember him as a significant figure who contributed to Bollywood both as a producer and as a former regulatory authority.
As the industry bids farewell, Pahlaj Nihalani death marks the passing of a controversial yet influential personality in Indian cinema.