CBFC’s New Censor Rules To Put Telugu Producers Under Pressure
“I urge Tollywood producers to submit their films for censor certification at least 10 days before the scheduled release. This will give the committee members enough time to watch the film and complete the certification process,” he says. Pointing out the pressure on censor officials, he adds, “Some Telugu producers approach the board on a Monday for a Friday release and expect the entire process to be completed within a few days. It has become quite hectic for the members.”
With the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) tightening its guidelines for film certification, Telugu producers may have to rethink their release plans and complete post-production well in advance. A noted producer feels that the new rules are necessary, but says filmmakers must also learn to plan better rather than approaching the censor board at the last minute.
“I urge Tollywood producers to submit their films for censor certification at least 10 days before the scheduled release. This will give the committee members enough time to watch the film and complete the certification process,” he says. Pointing out the pressure on censor officials, he adds, “Some Telugu producers approach the board on a Monday for a Friday release and expect the entire process to be completed within a few days. It has become quite hectic for the members.”
Citing an example, the producer says that Jailer 2 was submitted for certification nearly 15 days ahead of its release, giving the board sufficient time to complete the formalities. In contrast, some Telugu films arrive at the last minute without even completing basic technical work such as DI, sound mixing and dialogue synchronisation.
“I think producers should avoid announcing release dates until the film is completely ready. Otherwise, there will be unnecessary pressure on the censor board members. No matter how big the film is or how close the release date is, it cannot hit theatres without a censor certificate. Producers need to understand this and plan their schedules accordingly,” he says.
The CBFC's latest advisory makes it clear that films must be submitted in their final form, with completed background music, sound mixing, visual effects, graphics and accessibility features. Earlier, filmmakers often submitted unfinished versions while completing pending technical work simultaneously to save time. However, films with temporary placeholders, scratch scores or incomplete technical elements could now face delays or rejection.
The board has also clarified that a film's title is not automatically approved upon application and can still be recommended for changes by the Examining or Revising Committee. An announced theatrical release date will also not guarantee priority in the certification process.
The stricter guidelines could certainly make things challenging for producers working with tight deadlines. However, they may also bring in a much-needed change in the way films are planned and completed. For Tollywood, the message is clear: finish the film first and then announce the release date, rather than racing against the censor certificate at the eleventh hour.
