Javed Akhtar Slams Censor Boards: 'They Approve Vulgarity, Block Reality'

Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has ignited a passionate debate, launching a scathing critique against India's film censor boards. Speaking at a recent event in Mumbai, Akhtar voiced profound concern over what he perceives as a deeply flawed and hypocritical approach to film certification, where genuine depictions of reality are obstructed while overtly vulgar content sails through.

'What kind of society are they building?' Akhtar questioned, his words resonating with a frustration shared by many within the creative community.

He articulated a stark paradox: 'Censor boards easily pass vulgarity, but when someone creates a film based on reality, they face obstacles.' This statement underscores a worrying trend where superficiality and sensationalism are seemingly deemed acceptable, while honest, often uncomfortable, reflections of society are met with resistance.

Akhtar further elaborated on his conviction that 'vulgarity has no connection to reality,' highlighting the disconnect between what is permitted on screen and the lived experiences of people.

His assertion, 'We are living in an unreal society. We refuse to accept reality,' paints a bleak picture of a nation potentially shying away from introspection. It suggests a societal inclination to sugarcoat or outright ignore the challenging truths that art often seeks to explore.

The celebrated writer pointed out the profound irony: 'Everyone knows what's happening around them, but when it's shown on screen, they object.' This highlights a double standard where private acknowledgment of societal issues contrasts sharply with public discomfort when these same issues are brought to the cinematic forefront.

For Akhtar, this constitutes a form of self-deception, impeding the growth of mature, impactful cinema.

Akhtar's comments serve as a powerful call for greater artistic freedom and a more nuanced, progressive approach to censorship. He implicitly argues for boards that understand the difference between gratuitous content and art that challenges, provokes, and ultimately, helps society confront its own image, however unglamorous it might be.

His critique challenges the very foundation of current certification practices, urging a shift towards embracing reality rather than censoring it.