Noted producer and former Censor Board Chief Pahlaj Nihalani has passed away at the age of 76, reportedly due to liver cirrhosis. Nihalani, known for backing movies like Ilzaam, Shola Aur Shabnam, Aankhen, and Andaz, was battling liver-related issues for the last four months and breathed his last on Thursday at the Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai.

Nihalani was also known for his long association with actor Govinda and director David Dhawan. He played a notable role in producing some of Govinda's nostalgic hits. Born in 1950, he was active through the '80s and '90s, backing films, especially commercial cinema which were high-octane and family-oriented.

As the former head of the country's film certification body, he worked on his CBFC post from January 2015 to August 2017. During the time, his name hit headlines multiple times and was part of nationwide film due to his controversial decisions taken at the time of his tenur, sparking debates and discussions on censorship and the role of CBFC in India.

Condolences have been pouring in for Pahlaj Nihalani from various members of the industry and veterans. He is survived by his wife, Nita, and his three sons, Vishal, Deepesh and Chirag.