Busy with film names: Onir's dig at CBFC silence over new Nora Fatehi song

Filmmaker Onir questioned the CBFC's priorities amid backlash over Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt's 'Sarke Chunar' lyrics. The row has sparked a wider debate on censorship and content regulation.

In Short

• The song's lyrics and visuals sparked criticism for being vulgar and suggestive
• Public and industry figures question CBFC's role in content regulation
• Singer Armaan Malik criticised the song's commercial songwriting quality

Filmmaker Onir has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke, the song featuring Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt, with a sharp remark that has shifted focus onto the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Reacting to the backlash over the song’s lyrics, Onir questioned the Board’s priorities, stating that it appears to be “busy” with other issues while controversial content continues to circulate freely online.

His comment comes amid growing criticism of the song from both audiences and industry voices, with many questioning how such material is accessible across platforms without regulatory intervention. Onir drew a comparison to recent controversies around film titles, suggesting an inconsistency in what the CBFC chooses to scrutinise, thereby fuelling a wider debate on censorship and accountability.

Why is Sarke Chunar facing backlash?

The song from KD: The Devil, composed by Arjun Janya with lyrics by Raqeeb Alam, has been criticised for its suggestive wording and visual presentation. Featuring Fatehi in a bar-set dance sequence, the track quickly went viral after its release, drawing sharp reactions online.

Social media users flagged concerns over its easy accessibility, particularly on platforms like YouTube, where it is available to viewers of all ages. Several posts questioned whether adequate checks were in place for such content.

What did Armaan Malik say?

Singer Armaan Malik was among the first from the industry to respond, calling the song “a new low” for commercial songwriting. He said he had to replay it to ensure he had heard it correctly, adding that he wished he could “unhear it”.

What is the CBFC controversy about?

Onir’s comment referenced the recent debate around Ghooskhor Pandat, which faced objections over its title and led to scrutiny involving actor Manoj Bajpayee. Critics have pointed to this as an example of selective intervention, questioning why certain issues attract stricter attention than others.

Following the backlash, the makers have taken the song down from YouTube.

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