Quick answer
Every film shown in Indian cinemas needs a certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The categories are U (all ages), UA 7+, UA 13+ and UA 16+ (viewable by children below that age with parental guidance), A (adults only, 18+) and S (restricted to specialised audiences such as doctors).
The CBFC works under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and certifies films under the Cinematograph Act, 1952. The certificate appears at the start of every film and on posters, and it decides who can legally watch the film in a theatre.
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What each certificate means
U: Unrestricted
Suitable for all age groups. Family films, animated films and most mainstream dramas usually get a U certificate.
UA 7+, UA 13+ and UA 16+
Earlier, the UA category was a single rating that asked parents to guide children under 12. The Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023 split it into three age markers. A film rated UA 13+, for example, can be watched by children under 13 with parental guidance. The markers are advisory for parents; they help families judge whether a film suits their child.
A: Adults only
Restricted to viewers aged 18 and above. Theatres are expected to check age for A-rated films. Films with strong violence, sexual content or language usually receive this rating.
S: Specialised audiences
Restricted to a specific group, such as doctors or scientists. This category is rare and used for films made for professional viewing.
What changed in 2023
- Age-based UA ratings: UA was divided into UA 7+, UA 13+ and UA 16+.
- Certificates are now valid permanently. Earlier, a certificate was valid for 10 years.
- Anti-piracy rules: unauthorised recording and transmission of films became a punishable offence with fines and jail terms.
- Separate TV certification: an A or S film can be edited and re-certified for television.
How the certification process works
Producers apply to the CBFC, now largely online through the e-cinepramaan system. An examining committee watches the film and recommends a certificate, sometimes with cuts or modifications. If the producer disagrees, the film can go to a revising committee. After that, disputes go to the High Court, since the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal was abolished in 2021.
Do OTT shows need a CBFC certificate?
No. Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video and JioHotstar are not certified by the CBFC. Under the IT Rules, 2021, they classify their own content as U, U/A 7+, U/A 13+, U/A 16+ or A, and must offer parental controls for content rated U/A 13+ and above.
Why ratings matter to viewers
Certificates help parents decide what is suitable for children, and they affect how widely a film can be shown on television. For filmmakers, the rating can shape marketing and box office, since an A certificate limits the audience in theatres.
Frequently asked questions
What does UA 13+ mean?
A UA 13+ film is suitable for viewers aged 13 and above. Children under 13 can watch it with parental guidance.
Can a child watch an A-rated film in a theatre?
No. A-rated films are restricted to adults aged 18 and above in cinemas.
Are Netflix shows certified by the CBFC?
No. OTT platforms self-classify their content under the IT Rules, 2021, and are not certified by the CBFC.
Sources and further reading
Featured image: Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
