The Hindi film industry is mourning the demise of veteran producer Pahlaj Nihalani, who passed away on June 4 at the age of 76. Nihalani was renowned for backing successful films such as 'Ilzaam', 'Shola Aur Shabnam', 'Aankhen', and 'Andaz'. He also played a pivotal role in launching the careers of actors like Govinda and Chunky Panday. Beyond filmmaking, Nihalani served as the chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) from 2015 to 2017.
Shatrughan Sinha Mourns a Dear Friend
Among those deeply affected by Nihalani's passing is veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha, who described him as one of his closest friends. Speaking to Variety India, Sinha expressed his grief. "First, Dharmendra, now Pahlaj. I have lost two dear friends within months. Pahlaj was very dear to me. Our friendship goes back more than 40 years. He saw me through my toughest times. He was by my side through thick and thin. Never judgmental, he stood by my decisions in life, good, bad or ugly, without questioning me. As they say, 'yaaron ka yaar', that was Pahlaj. During any crisis or problem, my wife Punam and I would turn to him. What will I do without him?"
Sinha revealed that their professional association began with the film 'Haathkadi' in 1982 and soon evolved into a deep personal bond. "Our association began with 'Haathkadi' in 1982. Pahlaj wanted me to be in all his productions and I wanted to be in all of them. I never asked about my role. I trusted him blindly. In this cutthroat industry, Pahlaj was one person anyone could turn to for help. Like Karan Johar's father, Yash Johar, Pahlaj Nihalani helped even those whom he didn't know personally."
Rakesh Roshan Remembers a Supportive Colleague
Filmmaker and actor Rakesh Roshan also reflected on his long-standing relationship with Nihalani, describing him as a sincere and dependable colleague. "Pahlaj was a very good friend. I worked with him in two films as an actor, and then I made my first film as a producer-director, 'Khudgarz'. We would speak on the phone quite often. Lately, he was quite unwell."
Roshan recalled how Nihalani encouraged him during the making of 'Khudgarz' and even backed the film's distribution. "Pahlaj and Shatru (Shatrughan Sinha) were very close. When I was making 'Khudgarz,' he told me, 'Your script is very good. Rakeshji, you've done a wonderful job. Let's distribute it.' He was very likable and was with me throughout the making of the film. What set him apart from the producers of those days was that he was very honest and sincere. He was very passionate and knew what goes into making a film."
Suneel Darshan on Nihalani's Industry Leadership
Filmmaker Suneel Darshan remembered Nihalani not just as a producer but as a strong representative of the industry's interests. "Not only was he a filmmaker, but he was also a very responsible leader of the industry, especially for the producers. He moderated relationships between the various other departments of filmmaking, including actors and technicians."
Darshan also praised Nihalani's tenure as CBFC chief, noting that his experience as a producer gave him a unique understanding of the industry's challenges. "Pahlaj was also the chief of the censor board. He had a great stint, and he was absolutely the best person to have in that seat because he knew the plights and traumas that film producers experience."
The filmmaker fondly recalled collaborating with Nihalani during the distribution of 'Ek Rishtaa' and 'Haan... Maine Bhi Pyaar Kiya' in the Delhi-UP circuit and later working alongside him on 'Talaash: The Hunt Begins'. "It was great associating with the gentleman, and I have wonderful memories of it. Everyone has to leave someday, but he left a bit early."
Pahlaj Nihalani's Legacy Beyond Films
While audiences remember Pahlaj Nihalani for producing blockbuster entertainers and introducing new talent to Bollywood, those who worked closely with him remember something more enduring: a man who stood by his friends, supported filmmakers through difficult times, and remained deeply invested in the well-being of the industry. His contributions to Hindi cinema extended far beyond the films he produced, leaving behind memories that many in the industry will continue to cherish for years to come.
