23rd July 2023,Mumbai: Karan Johar’s Rom-Com Hitting TheatersThe much-awaited romantic comedy Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, directed by Karan Johar, is set to hit cinemas on July 28. Ahead of its release, the film has received a U/A certificate from the CBFC, but not without certain recommended cuts and changes. This marks Karan’s seventh directorial venture in his 25th year as a filmmaker and his first directorial in seven years since Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016). The film is co-produced by Karan’s Dharma Productions and Viacom18 Studios and stars Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, alongside veteran actors Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, and Shabana Azmi.
CBFC Enforces Cuts and Changes
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has reportedly mandated specific cuts and alterations in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani to grant it a U/A certificate. Some of the changes include replacing the cussword ‘b*******d’ with ‘behen di’ and swapping ‘bra’ with ‘item.’ Additionally, the famous rum brand Old Monk has been replaced by ‘Bold Monk.’ Furthermore, three dialogues were entirely removed from the film, including references to Lok Sabha and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and a scene in a lingerie shop that was considered ‘vulgar’ and ‘degrading to women.’ The Rabindranath Tagore scene, which created a buzz in the trailer, has also been altered.
Film’s Final Runtime
After the suggested cuts and changes, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’s final runtime has been confirmed to be 2 hours and 48 minutes, ensuring audiences get an immersive cinematic experience.
CBFC’s History of Censorship
This is not the first time that a Karan Johar film has faced CBFC’s recommendations. His previous directorial venture, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), starring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Aishwarya Rai, and Fawad Khan, also underwent certain cuts to secure a U/A certificate. These included reducing Anushka Sharma’s smooching scenes “by 50%” and modifying a dialogue to avoid controversy. In total, five cuts were made, resulting in a mere seven-second reduction in the film’s duration.
Honoring Uri Attack Martyrs
Apart from the cuts, the makers of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani were advised to include a disclaimer paying homage to the martyrs of the 2016 Uri Attack. This decision was taken to prevent any potential controversies surrounding the presence of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in the star-studded cast.
Karan Johar’s Take on CBFC’s Censorship
In the past, Karan Johar has been vocal about his thoughts on censorship and artistic freedom. He believes in the importance of creative expression but also understands the need to abide by the guidelines set by the CBFC. Despite the cuts, he remains optimistic that the essence of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani will be preserved, and audiences will embrace the film with open arms.
Audience Anticipation
With the film’s release just around the corner, fans are eagerly waiting to witness Karan Johar’s signature storytelling and the sparkling chemistry between Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt on the silver screen. The star-studded cast and the promise of a heartwarming romantic tale have generated immense anticipation, making Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani one of the most-awaited films of the year.
As Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani gears up for its release, the CBFC’s recommendations have sparked discussions among fans and critics alike. While some believe in the necessity of censorship, others advocate for artistic freedom. Nonetheless, the film’s final runtime and the modifications are expected to have minimal impact on the overall narrative, ensuring that audiences will still be treated to a delightful and entertaining cinematic experience.
-by Kashvi Gala