Veteran Bollywood film producer and former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the age of 76. He breathed his last at his residence in Mumbai after being brought home from Nanavati Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment. Nihalani had been ailing for several months due to liver-related health issues.
His family issued an official statement confirming the news: "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."
IMPPA President Abhay Sinha also confirmed the news. Tributes poured in from across the film industry.
FWICE chief Ashoke Pandit wrote on Instagram, "Sad to know about the demise of a veteran film Producer and an Industry leader Respected Pahalaj Nihalini ji this morning due to heart attack. He was a man who stood by the Industry causes and somebody who is responsible for making many hit films. A great loss to the Industry. Will miss him and his dynamism. Om Shanti."
Nihalani had a prolific career spanning four decades as a producer of mainstream Hindi commercial cinema. He produced his debut film Haathkadi in 1982, and went on to back several notable productions including Ilzaam (1986), Aag Hi Aag (1987), Shola Aur Shabnam (1992), Aankhen (1993), and Andaz (1994). His association with actor Govinda was particularly celebrated, as Ilzaam marked Govinda's screen debut, while Aag Hi Aag launched Chunky Pandey. His last production was the Govinda-starrer Rangeela Raja in 2019. Nihalani served as CBFC chairperson from January 2015 to August 2017, a tenure marked by significant controversy over aggressive censorship decisions and mandatory cuts.
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