Shane Nigam’s Haal faces censor board roadblock over ‘Beef Biryani’ scene, makers move Kerala High Court

CBFC objects to 15 scenes in Malayalam film Haal

Actor Shane Nigam’s upcoming romantic drama ‘Haal’ has found itself at the centre of a storm, with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) reportedly objecting to several scenes in the film.

Just days before its scheduled release, the movie’s clearance has been delayed after the Board suggested 15 cuts and changes, including one scene that allegedly depicts the characters eating beef biryani.

According to the film’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), the CBFC raised concerns about multiple portions in the movie, including references to ‘Dhwaja Pranaman’ and ‘Sangham kawal und’.

However, the team insists that the controversy surrounding the “beef biryani” scene has been blown out of proportion.

“The makers have denied that the film contains any scene showing the consumption of beef biryani, calling it a mere assumption by the CBFC,” the PRO clarified, stressing that the claim has no factual basis.

The certification delay has thrown the film’s release into uncertainty. If the suggested modifications are made, Haal is expected to receive an ‘A’ (Adults Only) certificate.

Also Read: Mohanlal finally announces Vrushabha release date, shares new poster

Unwilling to accept the changes, the producers have now taken the matter to the Kerala High Court, seeking justice and a fair review process. The first screening for the CBFC was reportedly held on 10 September, but no certificate has been issued since.

Directed by Veera and written by Nishad K Koya, Haal features Shane Nigam in the lead, alongside Sakshi Vaidya and Johny Antony. Produced under the JVJ Productions banner, the film was initially set to hit cinemas this week.

However, in light of the ongoing dispute, the release has been postponed.

The production house had earlier explained the delay in an Instagram post, saying, “Both big-budget films starring Shane Nigam were approaching release around the same time... delays in the censoring process and the inability to carry out adequate promotional campaigns... necessitated a new date.”

Shane Nigam’s other film, Balti — directed by debutant Unni Sivalingam — released recently to positive audience reactions.