The Raja Saab clears CBFC with minor cuts; Prabhas starrer gets U/A 16+
The Prabhas-led horror-comedy The Raja Saab has completed its censor formalities ahead of its January 9 release. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) certified the film U/A 16+ on December 24, 2025, after asking for just a couple of modifications to some violent visuals.
What the censor board changed
Most of the film — including its dialogues and romantic scenes — remains intact. The CBFC’s changes were limited to two graphic moments, which the makers altered to meet certification guidelines:
- Blood-on-floor scene: The shot showing blood being washed off the floor was modified and presented in monochrome (black-and-white) instead of full colour.
- Beheading sequence: A beheading shot was shortened by four seconds and trimmed down to quick flash visuals.
After these edits were implemented, the board granted the U/A certificate.
Runtime and release details
The censor certificate lists the film’s running time as 189.00 minutes — just over three hours (3 hours and 9 minutes). The Raja Saab opens in theatres on January 9 and will face a box-office clash with the Tamil release Jana Nayagan, which also runs over three hours (reported at around 3 hours and 3 minutes).
Cast, crew and expectations
Alongside Prabhas, The Raja Saab features an ensemble cast that includes Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan, Riddhi Kumar and Zarina Wahab. The film is written and directed by Maruthi and produced by People Media Factory and IVY Entertainment. Its mix of scale, comic-horror elements and starpower has built strong pre-release buzz.
What this means for viewers
With the certification now complete and only short, non-story-altering cuts made, audiences can expect the film’s core tone and performances to remain unaffected. The U/A 16+ rating means some scenes are deemed suitable for older teens and adults, while younger viewers may require parental guidance.
As release day approaches, attention will turn to advance bookings and opening weekend numbers — especially given the simultaneous big release from the Tamil industry. For now, fans of Prabhas and the horror-comedy genre have a largely intact film to look forward to on January 9.
