Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 4: Veteran film producer and former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Pahlaj Nihalani passed away on Thursday at the age of 76.

A prominent figure in the Hindi film industry, Nihalani was associated with several successful commercial films and was known for his long-standing collaboration with filmmaker David Dhawan and actor Govinda.

His family confirmed the news in a statement and announced that the last rites would be held on Thursday afternoon.

“With profound grief, we inform you of the passing of our beloved Pahlaj Nihalani on 4th June 2026. The cremation ceremony will be held today, 04.06.2026 at 3 pm at Santacruz Hindu Crematorium. We are grateful for your thoughts and prayers as we bid a final farewell,” the statement said.

Nihalani began his career as a film producer in the early 1980s. His debut production, Haathkadi, was released in 1982, followed by Aandhi-Toofan in 1985.

Over the years, he produced several popular Bollywood films, including Ilzaam, Gunahon Ka Faisla, Paap Ki Duniya, Mitti Aur Sona, Shola Aur Shabnam, Andaz and Aankhen.

Among his productions, Aankhen emerged as one of the biggest Bollywood blockbusters of the 1990s, cementing his reputation as a successful producer.

Apart from filmmaking, Nihalani also served as the chairman of the CBFC, where he played a prominent role in India's film certification process.

In his later years, he continued his association with cinema and produced the film Julie 2 in 2017.

His demise marks the end of a decades-long journey in the Indian film industry, where he left a significant imprint through his commercially successful productions and contributions to film administration.