The Indian film industry mourns the loss of veteran producer and former CBFC chairman Pahlaj NihalaniHe passed away in Mumbai on June 4, at the age of 76. According to reports, Nihalani was battling liver ailments for a long time.As tributes poured in from the film fraternity, the actor Suniel Shetty recalled the late filmmaker on a touching note, recalling how he helped Nihalani in the initial stages of her career.Taking to X, Suniel Shetty expressed his grief over Nihalani’s death and reflected on the impact she had on his life.“Pahlaj ji was one of the first people to believe in me. When I was finding my feet in the industry, he opened doors, guided me and was always by my side with warmth and encouragement,” the actor wrote.Suniel praised Nihalani not only as a producer but also as a compassionate person who was always ready to help others.“What I will remember most is not the producer he was, but the person he was – someone you could definitely call, knowing he would always try to help. My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and everyone whose lives he touched. Rest in peace Pahlaj ji. You will be sorely missed,” he added.
The film fraternity has gathered for the last farewell
Nihalani’s funeral and last rites were held in Mumbai on June 4 at 3 pm. Several members of the cinema fraternity attended to pay their last respects, among others GovindaDavid Dhawan, Malaika Arora, Saif Ali Khan and Farhan Akhtar.Pahlaj Nihalani made his debut as a producer in 1982 with the team Haathkadi, starring Sanjeev Kumar and Shatrughan Sinha. He continued with Aandhi-Toofan in 1985.One of the most significant milestones in his career came in 1986 when he produced Ilzaam, Govinda’s debut in Hindi cinema. He backed several successful films including Aag Hi Aag, Gunahon Ka Faisla, Paap Ki Duniya and Mitti Aur Sona. Nihalani also served as the Chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) from January 2015 to August 2017. During his tenure, his decisions and approach to film certification often made headlines, and he became one of the most controversial figures associated with the board in recent years.
