Prasoon Joshi Reflects on Balancing Creativity and Regulation
By A Staff Reporter
Panaji, Goa: Renowned lyricist, poet, and writer Prasoon Joshi shared insights into his journey as the chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) during a session at the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024. Reflecting on the challenges of balancing his creative instincts with regulatory duties, Joshi highlighted the importance of perspective.
“I’m a creative person, so I never thought that I’ll get into regulation,” he admitted. “No creative person would like it if they are asked to make changes to their work. It’s all about the vantage point.”
Joshi, known for his evocative lyrics and impactful storytelling, acknowledged the difficulty artists face when their work undergoes scrutiny. However, he emphasized the value of understanding multiple viewpoints. “Life is a vantage point. If you’ll try to look at things from someone else’s point of view, then you’ll understand things,” he said.
Under his leadership, the CBFC has navigated sensitive topics and controversies, balancing artistic expression with cultural sensibilities and societal norms. Joshi’s tenure has been marked by efforts to foster constructive dialogue between filmmakers and the certification body.
His remarks at IFFI reflect his belief in empathy and adaptability as key tools for managing the delicate balance between creativity and regulation in India’s vibrant yet complex film industry. The session concluded with discussions on how cinema continues to be a powerful medium for shaping societal narratives while respecting diverse perspectives.