Let’s take a look at some of the most critically acclaimed works which were stalled by the Censor Board of India.
1) Kamasutra
This masterpiece by Mira Nair received great critical acclaim all over but sadly, was halted by the Censors due to it being ‘too explicit’ and ‘immoral.’ Ironic, isn’t it? It’s not as if Kamasutra originated IN INDIA?
2) Water
A film that dared to look into the lives of widows in India; ‘Water’ was banned by the censors simply because it highlighted issues like ostracism and misogyny.
3) Gandu
This black and white Bengali ‘rap musical’ was banned for its explicit sex scenes and use of drugs. But the film is a great watch, story-wise! *he he he*
4) Firaaq
This was a film which dealt with the Gujarat riots and the Hindu-Muslim communal hatred. Despite receiving great reviews, the film got banned.
5) Fire
Deepa Mehta’s ‘Fire’ featured a lesbian relationship between two sisters-in-laws! This was just too much for the Censor Board to handle!
6) Sins
It dealt with the struggles of a Catholic Kairali priest who gets sexually involved with a woman. Not only did the Censor Board get offended, but the Catholics also protested against the film.
7) Unfreedom
The latest film to come under the Censor Board scanner, this film features a lesbian relationship, with an Islamic terrorism angle to it! This mix was simply too much for the Censors and it was allowed to release in only a few of the Indian States.
