Pahlaj Nihalani out of date with today's films: Hansal Mehta

Mumbai: Filmmaker Hansal Mehta, who himself has struggled to get his films cleared from the censor board in the past, says Pahlaj Nihalani's understanding of movies is outdated.

When Mehta was asked to comment on the state of affairs of film censorship in India, especially with reference to "Udta Punjab", Mehta told IANS: "It is ridiculous. The problem is that the wrong person has been chosen for the job. I have nothing personal against Pahlaj Nahlani, but he is completely out of date with the kinds of films are being made in today's time.

"As a result, the way they are interpreting the guidelines, is ridiculous."

The censor board demanded 89 cuts, including references to Punjab and expletives in "Udta Punjab". Later, the Revising Committee brought down the cuts to 13. Now the matter is awaiting a final hearing in the Bombay High Court.

Mehta rued: "I don't see any hope for change at all. I am just hoping 'Udta Punjab' gets its due and it is released without any cuts."