Film Industry Faced Heat During Emergency: Censorship, Bans Marked a Dark Chapter in Cinema History
As the nation marks the anniversary of the Emergency declared on June 25, 1975, the spotlight once again turns to how India’s film industry suffered under one of the darkest chapters in democratic history. From censorship clampdowns to outright bans, the 21-month Emergency period left a deep impact on cinema, creativity, and free expression.

Under the rule of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the country witnessed a sweeping crackdown on dissent. The film industry was no exception. Renowned singer Kishore Kumar was banned from All India Radio and Doordarshan after reportedly refusing to sing at a government event. The acclaimed political drama Aandhi, believed to be loosely based on Indira Gandhi’s life, was abruptly pulled from theatres shortly after its release.

Perhaps the most striking example of censorship during this time was the political satire Kissa Kursi Ka, directed by Amrit Nahata. The film, which took aim at political corruption and authoritarianism, was never allowed to be screened. Instead, its master prints were reportedly confiscated and destroyed.

While state censorship loomed large, the period also saw growing resistance within the film community. Legendary actor Dev Anand took a firm stand against the regime, even launching his own political outfit—the National Party of India. A host of other actors and filmmakers, including Pran, Shatrughan Sinha, Vijay Anand, and Danny Denzongpa, aligned themselves with the Janata Party in a rare show of political solidarity from Bollywood’s largely apolitical mainstream.

The Emergency officially ended on March 21, 1977, but its legacy continues to be a subject of cultural introspection and debate. For the film industry, it remains a stark reminder of the fragile line between artistic freedom and authoritarian overreach.