Producer Pahlaj Nihlani is no more. According to reports, the former Central Board of Film Certification chairperson had been unwell for some time now, and took his last breath at 76 in a Mumbai hospital.
When we reach out, people from the industry confirm the sad news. Trade analyst Atul Mohan, who had worked with Pahlaj as part of the CBFC earlier, tells us, “It’s a personal loss. I had spoken to him just 10 days back, he had some liver problem. We were close. He did not drink alcohol as well. I remember the time when distributors wanted ki bas ek film Pahlaj ji ke saath ban jaaye, he had the midas touch. Even as the CBFC chief, he ensured that filmmakers would get their films certified on time, including screenings on Sundays as well when needed.”
Pahlaj has been behind several Hindi hits such as Shola Aur Shabnam (1992), Aankhen (1993) and Ilzaam, all co-incidentally starring actor Govinda.
The funeral will be held today in Mumbai at 3pm.