The release of Shane Nigam’s upcoming musical love story, Haal, has hit a new roadblock following the Censor Board's direction to remove 15 cuts, citing "objectionable content". It includes a scene featuring the consumption of beef biriyani. The makers have also been directed to remove references like 'Dhwaja Pranamam', 'Sangham Kavalundu', 'Rakhi', and a scene where the heroine is seen dancing in a purdah.
According to the film's writer Nishad Koya, Haal has elements of a political satire where every religious and political group has been criticised. Since the board has asserted that an A certificate will be granted only if the recommended cuts are made, the makers have decided to approach the High Court. Director Veeraa has accused the Censor Board of trying to silence the film's message and his artistic freedom.
Haal has faced multiple delays in release. The makers had originally announced April 24 as the release date before moving it to September. Produced by JVJ Productions, the film is also planned to be dubbed and released in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi.
Haal has debutante Sakshi Vaidya as the female lead. The film also stars Johny Antony, Nishanth Sagar, Madhupal, and Joy Mathew in key roles. It has cinematography by Ravichandran, editing by Akash Joseph Varghese, and music by debutant Nandhagopan V.
