KGF director-backed 418 hits censor hurdle, team moves Revising Committee

KGF director Prashanth Neel’s upcoming horror film, 418, appears to have hit a roadblock with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film, which marks the directorial debut of Kirtan Nadagouda, has reportedly faced objections over its horror content, with the censor board raising concerns about the film having “too many horror elements”. The makers have now approached the Revising Committee as they seek certification for the film.According to a report by Telugu360, the certification process has not progressed as expected, prompting the team to take the matter to the Revising Committee. 418 was initially expected to release on July 31, but the film did not make it to theatres as planned. A new release date is expected to be announced once the certification process is completed.The film marks a new territory for Prashanth Neel, who is best known for directing the KGF franchise and Salaar. While Neel is presenting the project, 418 is produced by Mythri Movie Makers. The first look of the horror film was unveiled in early July, building curiosity around the relatively new cast and the genre.The CBFC development comes at a time when several Telugu films have reportedly faced certification-related hurdles. Allari Naresh’s Rambha Urvasi Menaka, for instance, reportedly faced objections over the costumes worn by its characters. Korean Kanakaraju also reportedly had to explain certain portions of its story to the authorities over concerns about its possible impact on the Korean-Indian audience. Interestingly, reports of 418 facing objections over its horror content has also triggered a wave of reactions online. Several social media users found the situation ironic, given that the film is, after all, a horror movie.“Horror movie having horror elements is a problem nowadays,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Horror movie should have horror elements otherwise what's the point.” A third user expressed frustration at the development, saying they had been waiting for a horror film that would genuinely scare them, only to come across the news of the CBFC hurdle. Another urged the board to simply grant the film an A certificate and allow it to release.Here are some reactions:What is 418 about?418 stars Surya Raj, Charan Lakkaraju and Preethi Pagadal in the lead roles. The film is directed by Kirtan Nadagouda, who previously worked as an assistant director with Prashanth Neel.While details about the plot remain under wraps, the film's horror genre and Neel's association with the project have generated interest ahead of its release.For now, the film's theatrical plans remain uncertain. The team is expected to announce a new release date after the CBFC certification hurdle is cleared.- EndsPublished On: Sep 3, 2026 11:55 IST