The Hypocrisy of Censors: Javed Akhtar Decries Clearance for Vulgarity While Reality Faces Hurdles

In a searing critique that resonates deeply within the Indian film fraternity, legendary lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar recently brought to light a significant paradox plaguing the nation’s film censorship landscape. With his characteristic candour and intellectual depth, Akhtar passionately articulated his dismay over what he perceives as a profound inconsistency in the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) approach.

Speaking at a recent event, Akhtar did not mince words, asserting that films often laden with what he termed 'vulgarity' surprisingly manage to secure clearance with relative ease.

Conversely, he lamented, cinematic works that bravely attempt to mirror the complex, often uncomfortable, truths of society or delve into pressing social issues frequently find themselves entangled in a web of bureaucratic hurdles, facing stringent cuts or even outright bans.

This selective application of censorship, according to Akhtar, not only stifles artistic freedom but also fundamentally undermines the role of cinema as a medium for reflection and social commentary.

He questioned the rationale behind a system that seemingly prioritizes the suppression of realistic narratives over genuinely objectionable content, hinting at a misplaced moral compass within the censorship body.

Akhtar’s impassioned plea extends to a call for greater maturity and nuanced understanding from the censors.

He argued that art, by its very nature, is meant to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and sometimes, even disturb the comfortable. To censor reality is to deny society a mirror to its own existence, preventing essential conversations and critical self-reflection. His views underscore a long-standing debate about the fine line between artistic expression and perceived obscenity, advocating for a discernment that respects the filmmaker's intent.

The veteran's remarks reignite crucial discussions surrounding the evolving role of the CBFC in a rapidly modernizing nation.

As filmmakers continue to push boundaries and explore diverse narratives, Akhtar’s powerful voice serves as a poignant reminder that true artistic freedom lies in the ability to portray life in all its multifaceted glory, without arbitrary restrictions that paradoxically allow triviality to thrive while profundity is curtailed.

His words serve as a rallying cry for a more progressive and artist-friendly censorship regime in India, one that champions authenticity over superficial propriety.