CBFC refuses to certify ‘Lipstick Under My Burkha’
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has refused to certify Prakash Jha’s ‘Lipstick Under My Burkha’ for being too “lady orientated”.
Explaining why the film was rejected a certificate, CBFC said, “The story is lady oriented, their fantasy above life. There are contentious sexual scenes, abusive words, audio pornography and a bit sensitive touch about one particular section of society, hence film refused under guidelines 1(a), 2(vii), 2(ix), 2(x), 2(xi), 2(xii) and 3(i).”
Chairman of CBFC, Pahlaj Nihalani did not elaborate on further on the issue except saying that the decision taken was unanimous amongst the board. He was cited in Mumbai Mirror saying, “As a country we must encourage freedom of expression but the CBFC refusing to certify films that tell uncomfortable stories discourages filmmakers from pushing the envelope.”
‘Lipstick Under My Burkha’ is a women-orientated drama, exploring the sexual escapades of four women in a small town.
Pooja Bhatt took to Twitter to have her say on the developing story:
Not the first time this has happened. Makers must approach revising committee & tribunal thereafter.Censor board wants to pass the buck. https://t.co/ny6xkrxGVp
— Pooja Bhatt (@PoojaB1972) February 23, 2017
Farhan Akhtar also shared the rejection certificate from CBFC:
Below is the reason CBFC listed for denying #LipstickUnderMyBurkha a release. Keep your barf bag ready.. pic.twitter.com/NFO42sRJIb
— Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) February 23, 2017