Subodh Bhave's Neem Karoli Baba biopic gets May 29 release after CBFC row
Synopsis
A biopic on Neem Karoli Baba starring Subodh Bhave had to take the Bombay High Court route just to get a censor certificate — with the CBFC allegedly sitting on a Tatkal application for weeks. The film now releases on 29 May, but the episode raises sharp questions about institutional accountability in film certification.
Key Takeaways
Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj , starring Subodh Bhave , is confirmed for theatrical release on 29 May .
The film received its censor certificate only after the makers filed a writ petition in the Bombay High Court against the CBFC .
The makers allege the film was submitted under the Tatkal category, which mandates certification within eight days , but the file remained pending for weeks.
All required NOCs from Neem Karoli Baba's family, legal heirs, and trusts had been submitted in advance, according to the producers.
The film was originally scheduled to release on 24 April before repeated delays pushed the date back.
The cast also includes Hiten Tejwani , Samikssha Bhatnagar , Hemant Pandey , and Aniruddh Dave .
Subodh Bhave's much-anticipated biopic Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj, based on the life of globally revered saint Neem Karoli Baba, has finally received its censor certificate and is now confirmed for a theatrical release on 29 May. The film's road to screens was marked by months of delays, alleged administrative stonewalling by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and ultimately a writ petition filed in the Bombay High Court.
A Long Wait for Certification
According to the film's makers, all required documents — including No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from Neem Karoli Baba's family, legal heirs, and associated trusts — were submitted well in advance. Despite this, sources close to the production claim the certification file remained pending for weeks, far beyond the stipulated timeline.
The film had reportedly been submitted under the Tatkal category, under which the CBFC is required to issue a certificate within eight days as per regulations. The makers allege this deadline was not honoured, forcing repeated follow-ups with the certification body.
High Court Petition Breaks the Deadlock
With the process at a standstill, the filmmakers escalated the matter by filing a writ petition in the Bombay High Court, challenging what they described as arbitrary conduct and undue delay by the CBFC. According to sources, the certification process moved swiftly once senior officials became aware the matter had reached the High Court.
Director Sharad Singh Thakur expressed relief after the certificate was finally issued. 'This is not just a film, but a story deeply connected to the faith and emotions of millions,' he said. He added, 'Despite applying under the Tatkal category and following every legal procedure, our application remained pending. It was only after we approached the High Court that the process moved forward. Finally, truth has prevailed — this is a victory for faith, justice, and the power of the judiciary.'
About the Film
The biopic chronicles the life, teachings, simplicity, and humanitarian message of Neem Karoli Baba, a saint with a vast following across India and internationally. The film stars Subodh Bhave in the lead role, alongside Hiten Tejwani, Samikssha Bhatnagar, Hemant Pandey, and Aniruddh Dave.
The project is produced by Balram Garg, Balvir Singh, Sharad Singh Thakur, Khadag Singh Gaur, and Neelam Singh, and is presented by Anisha Films International in association with PC Jeweller and BSR Film Productions. The film was originally scheduled to release on 24 April before its repeated postponements.
What to Expect at the Box Office
The film has reportedly generated considerable anticipation among devotees and general audiences alike, given Neem Karoli Baba's widespread spiritual following. With a confirmed 29 May release date now in place and censor clearance secured, the makers appear set to proceed without further legal impediment. Whether the controversy surrounding its certification journey adds to public curiosity remains to be seen.
Point of View
Despite complete documentation and NOCs, suggests systemic dysfunction rather than isolated bureaucratic delay. The broader concern is that smaller productions without the resources to approach the High Court may simply give up. Film certification in India needs a transparent, time-bound, and publicly auditable process — not one that moves only when a court is watching.
NationPress
1 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj releasing in theatres?
The film is confirmed to release in theatres on 29 May. It was originally scheduled for 24 April but faced repeated delays due to alleged CBFC certification issues.
Why was the film's censor certificate delayed?
The makers allege the CBFC did not process their application within the mandated eight-day Tatkal window despite all documents, including NOCs from Neem Karoli Baba's family and trusts, being submitted. The certification was issued only after the filmmakers filed a writ petition in the Bombay High Court.
Who stars in the Neem Karoli Baba biopic?
Subodh Bhave plays the lead role of Neem Karoli Baba. The supporting cast includes Hiten Tejwani, Samikssha Bhatnagar, Hemant Pandey, and Aniruddh Dave.
Who produced Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj?
The film is produced by Balram Garg, Balvir Singh, Sharad Singh Thakur, Khadag Singh Gaur, and Neelam Singh, and is presented by Anisha Films International in association with PC Jeweller and BSR Film Productions.
What is the film about?
Shree Baba Neeb Karori Maharaj is a biopic on Neem Karoli Baba, a globally revered Indian saint known for his teachings, simplicity, and humanitarian message. The film is directed by Sharad Singh Thakur.
