Paanch Set to Hit Theaters After Two Decades: Anurag Kashyap’s Directorial Debut Finally Resurfaces

Once Banned, Now Restored: The Cult Classic Prepares for a Much-Anticipated Theatrical Release

Anurag Kashyap’s first directorial venture, Paanch, is finally gearing up for a theatrical debut, nearly two decades after its initial release was blocked. The film, originally completed in 2003, faced hurdles with the Central Board of Film Certification, which raised concerns over its content, leading to a prolonged delay.

Producer Tutu Sharma recently confirmed that the restoration process for the film’s slightly deteriorated negatives has already begun. “Paanch is definitely coming next year. I plan to release it in cinemas within six months. The film was banned, and the negatives have slightly deteriorated. The process of restoring them has already started. As soon as it’s ready, we’ll release Paanch,” Sharma told Bollywood Hungama.

Reflecting on the film’s troubled journey, Sharma explained, “The issues with the Central Board of Film Certification were resolved. But then we faced some more challenges; hence, the film was lying in cans. Now, with the trend of re-runs gaining traction, a film like Paanch has immense potential. The current audience appreciates such storytelling.”

The producer also highlighted the film’s stellar performances and Kashyap’s groundbreaking direction. “Not just Kay Kay Menon but even Tejaswini Kolhapure is brilliant in the film. According to me, it is Anurag Kashyap’s best film to date. Many people believe that. You’ll agree with me once you see it.”

As cinephiles eagerly await its release, Paanch promises to deliver an experience that reaffirms its cult status while introducing a new generation to Kashyap’s cinematic brilliance.