Kabir Khan Reveals CBFC Asked To Cut 'Maulvi' Om Puri's 'Jai Shree Ram' Chant In Bajrangi Bhaijaan
Kabir Khan's Bajrangi Bhaijaan, starring Salman Khan as the lead, is one of the most talked-about films in both their filmographies. With its deep political messaging and balanced entertainment, the film has amassed a great fan following over the years. As the film clocks 10 years, the director opened up to SCREEN and revealed that the CBFC asked him to make a major edit.
In the film, Om Puri played the role of a Maulvi in Pakistan. His character appeared during a crucial part of the film and emphasised humanity above religious and national boundaries. However, in one of the scenes, he remarked, 'Thoda sa humare paas bhi hai Kashmir." When asked if Kabir Khan felt that this could be seen as provocative, the filmmaker said, 'No, I wasn't thinking too much back then."
Kabir Khan said, 'I just followed my heart. But you're right, today, people judge a film before watching it. But back then, not one person said the film was offensive. Although there was a line the censors wanted me to cut, when Om Puri says 'Jai Shri Ram' to Salman as he's seeing them off."
The filmmaker added, 'They thought it might upset people, especially the Muslim population. But I fought for it. I remember watching the film at Gaiety Galaxy, one of the most quintessential single-screen experiences in Mumbai. The theatre, packed with Muslim blue-collar workers from Bandra, erupted in cheers when that line came. It was the clearest sign that everyone who doubted it was wrong. You could see how deeply the moment landed with them."
When asked if Kabir had anticipated that the film would strike an emotional chord with the audience, he said, 'Not at that level. I knew it was emotional, but I thought it'd be funnier than emotional. After the release, I visited theatres and saw people just sitting in their seats, not getting up. I realised they were trying to compose themselves. They were sobbing. That's when it hit me, this is really emotional. Even now, when I rewatch the last part, I get misty-eyed. And if I'm tearing up, then I can understand the impact it's had on audiences."
In the same chat, Kabir Khan also revealed that Om Puri was not the first choice for the role. Kabir Khan had initially approached Naseeruddin Shah, who loved the script and the character, but couldn't finally be in the film.
First Published:
July 17, 2025, 10:22 IST
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