Bajrangi Bhaijaan Turns 10: Kabir Khan Recalls CBFC Clash Over Iconic ‘Jai Shri Ram’ Dialogue

Entertainment News: Bajrangi Bhaijaan captivated hearts around the world a decade ago with its devoted plot and message of love without borders. As the Salman Khan-starring film celebrates its tenth anniversary today, director Kabir Khan revealed in an interview with Screen about a behind-the-scenes battle with the CBFC over a now-iconic moment that nearly didn't make the final cut.

Kabir Khan fought with the CBFC for one dialogue

When asked if he was concerned about including the line that Om Puri says, "Thoda sa humare paas bhi hai Kashmir (We also have a little bit of Kashmir), Kabir replied, "No, I wasn’t thinking too much back then. 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."

CBFC thought it might upset people

"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," said Kabir.

About the movie, Bajrangi Bhaijan

The film follows Pavan, a passionate Lord Hanuman devotee, as he starts on a mission to reunite a deaf and dumb Pakistani girl with her family across the border. The film was a huge economic and critical success thanks to its touching story, emotional depth, and cross-border message of humanity and love. The film, directed by Kabir Khan, starred Salman Khan, Harshaali Malhotra, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Om Puri in leading parts. The film grossed ₹921.93 crore globally, making it one of the highest-grossing Indian films in history.