Rahu Ketu Gets U/A Certificate After Kantara Scream, Drug Scenes Removed

The upcoming Hindi film Rahu Ketu, starring Pulkit Samrat and Varun Sharma, has been granted a U/A 16+ certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification ahead of its theatrical release on January 16. The certification came after the makers implemented multiple edits suggested by the censor board, impacting audio, visuals and select gestures within the film.

One of the most notable changes ordered by the CBFC was the removal of the popular “voom” scream associated with the film Kantara. The audio element, which had drawn attention during the certification process, was directed to be completely omitted from the final cut. Alongside this, the censor board also flagged scenes that depicted drug consumption, particularly visuals showing sniffing and snorting, asking the filmmakers to either remove or suitably modify them.

In addition to drug-related visuals, the CBFC instructed the makers to alter a scene featuring a hand gesture. A middle finger gesture shown earlier has now been replaced with a pinky finger, in line with certification norms for a U/A-rated film. References to alcohol brands were also asked to be removed or blurred to ensure compliance with advertising and content guidelines.

These edits reflect the censor board’s broader approach to balancing creative expression with age-appropriate viewing standards. By issuing a U/A 16+ certificate, the CBFC has allowed the film to reach a wider audience while ensuring that certain elements deemed unsuitable for younger viewers are addressed responsibly.

Rahu Ketu is positioned as a comedy that blends humour with themes of belief systems, astrology and everyday chaos. The film features a strong ensemble cast including Shalini Pandey, Piyush Mishra, Chunky Panday, Amit Sial, Manu Rishi Chadha and Sumit Gulati, adding depth and variety to its narrative. Backed by Zee Studios and BLive Production, the film aims to offer light-hearted entertainment rooted in relatable situations.

The pairing of Pulkit Samrat and Varun Sharma has generated particular interest, given their successful collaborations in the Fukrey franchise. The duo is known for their comic timing and on-screen chemistry, and Rahu Ketu is expected to capitalise on that familiarity while placing them in a new setting with fresh characters.

With the CBFC-mandated changes now incorporated, the film is cleared for nationwide theatrical release. Industry observers note that while certification edits are common, the removal of recognisable audio cues like the Kantara scream highlights the increasing scrutiny on copyrighted and culturally sensitive elements in mainstream cinema.

As Rahu Ketu gears up for release, attention will now shift to audience response and box office performance, especially as the film looks to kick off the year with a comedy-driven theatrical experience.