Sudipto Sen Criticizes CBFC's Alleged Double Standards in Film Certification
Renowned filmmaker Sudipto Sen has recently voiced strong criticism against what he describes as the "double standard" in how movies are evaluated and certified in India. The director, best known for the blockbuster 'The Kerala Story', expressed frustration that ultra-violent films often receive certification without significant scrutiny, while films based on real-life events are frequently labeled as propaganda and face hurdles with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Questioning the Certification Process
In a recent statement, Sudipto Sen directly challenged the CBFC's practices, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in their approach. He pointed to movies like 'Animal' and 'Dhurandhar', which feature graphic violence and gore, and questioned why they are readily approved for theatrical release. In contrast, his own projects, including the upcoming 'The Kerala Story 2' and the film 'Charak', have been subjected to intense scrutiny and labeled as propaganda.
"Our censor board follows a kind of double standard," Sen stated, as reported by IANS. "Many of the governing practices are decades old. The Cinematograph Act itself dates back to 1952. A few years ago, the censor board accepted the recommendations of the Shyam Benegal Committee report, but the law and its implications have still not been fully implemented."
Advocacy for Filmmakers' Rights
Sen emphasized his commitment to raising awareness about these issues, vowing to continue speaking out on various platforms. He urged the film community and the public to acknowledge the challenges filmmakers face in such situations. "We will continue to raise our voices and speak about these issues on different forums," he said. "I also urge everyone to speak about the pain and agony that filmmakers have to go through in such situations; we would truly appreciate it."
About 'Charak' and Sudipto Sen's Career
Sudipto Sen's upcoming film 'Charak' features a talented ensemble cast including Anjali Patil, Sahidur Rahaman, Subrat Dutta, Shashi Bhushan, Nalneesh Neel, Shankhadeep, and Shounak Shyamal in key roles. The film is directed by Sen himself, who has established himself as a significant voice in Indian cinema.
Sen rose to prominence after directing 'The Kerala Story' in 2023, which became a massive commercial success. Starring Adah Sharma in the lead role, the film earned over Rs 300 crore globally at the box office. His work was further recognized when he received the Best Director National Film Award in 2025 for 'The Kerala Story', cementing his reputation as a filmmaker of note.
The Broader Context of Film Certification in India
The debate over CBFC's certification process is not new, with many filmmakers and industry experts calling for reforms. The reliance on outdated laws, such as the Cinematograph Act of 1952, has been a point of contention. Despite the acceptance of the Shyam Benegal Committee's recommendations aimed at modernizing the certification framework, full implementation remains pending, leading to ongoing frustrations within the film community.
This issue highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and regulatory oversight in Indian cinema. As filmmakers like Sudipto Sen continue to advocate for change, the conversation around film certification is likely to remain a pivotal topic in Bollywood and beyond, influencing how stories are told and received in the public sphere.
