Here's All You Need To Know About Prasoon Joshi, The New Censor Board Chief Who's Replacing Pahlaj Nihalani!

One of the most respected names in the Indian film industry, Prasoon Joshi is more than just a talented lyricist. So, when the news of his appointment as the new chief of Central Board Of Film Certification, CBFC, was announced, film fans erupted in joy. For he will replace Pahlaj Nihalani, whose tenure was filled with controversies since his appointment to the office in January 2015.

Born in Uttarakhand’s Almora, the 45-year-old poet and screenwriter is a successful ad man. A science graduate, Joshi started his career with Ogilvy and Mather and went on to become the executive vice-president of McCann-Erickson.

He began writing lyrics in 1999 with Bhopal Express, but his big break in films came with the song Kaun dagar, kaun shehar in Rajkumar Santoshi’s 2001 film Lajja. A versatile writer, he has many memorable jingles to his credit.

He became more prominent after penning songs for films like Fanaa, Rang De Basanti, Black, Delhi 6 and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.

In 2007, Joshi won the National Award for Best Lyrics for Taare Zameen Par and a second one for Chittagong in 2013.

Recently, his verses in Neerja’s songs were also well appreciated.

Joshi was also equally successful in indie-pop, with Shubha Mudgal’s breakthrough albums Ab Ke Saawan and Mann Ke Manjeere.

Awarded Padma Shri in 2015, Prasoon Joshi is known for putting forth his opinion on contemporary issues.