CBFC’s New Rule: PM Modi‘s Quote in ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ – What’s Really Going On?

So the CBFC is at it again. This time, they’ve told the makers of Sitaare Zameen Par to slap a quote from PM Modi right at the start of the film. No explanation, no “pretty please.” Just do it. And honestly? It’s got everyone scratching their heads. Censorship? Politics? Or just another day in Bollywood? Let’s break it down.

Wait, What’s This Movie About Anyway?

Remember Taare Zameen Par? That beautiful film about the kid who saw the world differently? Well, this is sort of its spiritual cousin—same heart, new story. Aamir Khan’s producing it, and from what I’ve heard, it’s got that same emotional punch. But now, thanks to our dear friends at the CBFC, we’re talking more about disclaimers than the actual film. Typical.

The Modi Quote Thing – Here’s What We Know

Okay, so sources say the CBFC wants some Modi quote about unity or empowerment right up front. Which quote? No idea. Why? Even less of a clue. The board’s keeping mum, which—let’s be real—never looks good. Feels like when your mom rearranges your room while you’re out and says, “It’s better this way.”

Why Would They Do This? Three Theories:

• Politics, Obviously: Some folks think it’s about slipping in pro-govt messaging where it doesn’t belong. Wouldn’t be the first time.
• Nationalism Angle: Maybe they think Modi’s words somehow match the film’s vibe? Stretching it, but okay.
• Because They Can: Remember what they did to Kashmir Files? Yeah, pattern emerging.

People Are Pissed (And Some Aren’t)

Twitter’s doing its usual thing—half the people screaming “propaganda!”, the other half going “but it’s our PM!” The film team? Radio silence. But I talked to this one producer friend (who made me swear not to name them), and they said, “This is bullsh*t. What’s next? Mandatory Modi quotes in rom-coms?” Harsh. But you get the frustration.

CBFC’s Been Like This Forever

Let’s not pretend this is new. These are the same folks who cut kissing scenes because “indian culture,” who made Udta Punjab chop half its dialogues. Now they’re playing quote DJ with the PM’s speeches. The real issue? Zero transparency. At least tell us why, man.

Bigger Question: Who Controls Our Stories?

Here’s the thing—CBFC has the legal power to do this. But just because you can do something, should you? Films aren’t government pamphlets. They’re stories. And when you force-feed politics into them, it leaves a bad taste. Remember when they added those weird disclaimers to Animal? Exactly.

Bottom Line

This isn’t just about one quote in one movie. It’s about who gets to decide what Indian cinema should say. Right now, that power’s in the wrong hands. And unless we start pushing back, soon every film’s gonna open like a political rally. Scary thought.

What do you think? Hit me up in the comments—I’m actually curious.

FAQs (Because People Keep Asking)

Seriously, why the Modi quote?

Your guess is as good as mine. CBFC’s not talking, so we’re all playing detective here.

They’ve done this before?

Oh honey, where’ve you been? Padmaavat, Kashmir Files—it’s practically a trend now.

Does this ruin the movie?

Depends. If it’s just a dumb disclaimer, maybe not. But it definitely leaves a weird aftertaste.

Can filmmakers fight this?

Technically yes, practically? Good luck. The system’s stacked against them.

Source: Hindustan Times – India News