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Bollywood News Updated Jun 4, 2026

Kangana Ranaut Pays Tribute to Veteran Producer Pahlaj Nihalani After His Passing at 76

Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut remembered veteran filmmaker Pahlaj Nihalani following his passing on June 4 at age 76. She paid tribute on X, recalling his decades-long commitment to Indian cinema as a producer. Nihalani produced numerous films including the 1990s hit 'Aankhen' and also served as CBFC chairperson. His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from the film fraternity.

Kangana Ranaut remembers veteran producer Pahlaj Nihalani after his passing

Mumbai, June 4

Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut remembered veteran filmmaker and former Central Board of Film Certification chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani following his demise on June 4. He was 76.

Kangana took to her X account to pay tribute to Nihalani and remembered his long association with Indian cinema.

Calling him a producer who supported several artists and remained committed to the film industry for decades, she said his contribution would always be remembered.

Sharing her condolences, Kangana wrote, "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Pahlaj Nihalani ji. A producer who backed numerous films, launched and supported many artists, and remained passionately committed to Indian cinema for decades, his contribution to the film industry will always be remembered."

"My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. Om Shanti," she added.

Take a look

Pahlaj Nihalani was a well-known name in the Hindi film industry. He began his journey as a producer in the early 1980s with 'Haathkadi' in 1982, followed by 'Aandhi-Toofan' in 1985.

Over the years, he produced several films, including 'Gunahon Ka Faisla', 'Paap Ki Duniya', 'Mitti Aur Sona', 'Shola Aur Shabnam' and 'Aankhen'. Among them, Aankhen emerged as one of the biggest Bollywood hits of the 1990s.

Apart from producing films, Nihalani also served as the chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). In later years, he backed the 2017 film 'Julie 2'.

His passing has left many members of the film fraternity saddened, with tributes continuing to pour in from across the industry.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Vikram M

Regardless of what people think about his CBFC tenure, the man produced some iconic films. 'Shola Aur Shabnam' was my childhood favorite. Rest in peace, Pahlaj ji. Om Shanti. 🕯️

Siddharth J

While I respect his contributions to cinema, I can't forget his controversial decisions as CBFC chairperson - especially the censorship of 'Udta Punjab'. That was a low point for freedom of expression in Indian films. But may his soul rest in peace.

Kavya N

Kangana is right to remember him - he was a producer who launched many careers. But I wish she would show this same respect to everyone in the industry. Anyway, condolences to the family. 🙏

James A

Interesting to see the mixed reactions here. As someone outside India, I knew Nihalani more for his CBFC controversies than his films. But it's clear he was a significant figure in Bollywood. Rest in peace.

Rohit P

Pahlaj Nihalani produced some real masala entertainers! 'Aankhen' was just brilliant - that film still holds up today. May his soul rest in peace. And good on Kangana for acknowledging his legacy despite their different political views.

M We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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