Archive · 27 Aug 2026
Maharashtra Requires Suitability Certificates for DJ Lavani Performances
Maharashtra has introduced a new rule for some public dance shows.
Organisers of Lavani and other folk performances may need a suitability certificate before their shows can take place.
The certificate checks the show’s script, announcements or summary.
Officials are especially concerned about shows called “DJ Lavani.”
They say some of these shows use film songs and live DJ music instead of only traditional material.
The board also received complaints about dance routines that people considered obscene.
It warned that traditional Lavani certificates may have been used for these different performances.
Police have been told to check for the certificate before allowing the shows.
Maharashtra’s State Stage Performance Censorship Board has mandated suitability certificates for public Lavani and other folk performances.
Police have been directed to allow such shows only after organisers provide a certificate for the script, announcement or synopsis.
The directive targets shows described as “DJ Lavani,” which may use film songs, DJ music and allegedly obscene dance routines.
The board said certificates for traditional Lavani performances were being misused to stage performances with live DJs.
The instructions were issued in a circular dated August 14 to senior Maharashtra police officials.
- Who
- Maharashtra’s State Stage Performance Censorship Board, police authorities and organisers of Lavani and other folk performances.
- What
- A mandatory suitability certificate is required for scripts, announcements or synopses before certain public performances can be allowed.
- When
- The directive was issued in a circular dated August 14.
- Where
- Maharashtra.
- Why
- The board cited complaints that performances featuring female dancers were being presented as traditional Lavani while using film songs, DJ music and allegedly obscene routines.
- Issuing body
- State Stage Performance Censorship Board
- Requirement
- A mandatory Suitability Certificate for the script, announcement or synopsis
- Performances covered
- Public Lavani and other folk performances
- Police instruction
- Allow performances only after organisers produce the certificate
- Targeted format
- Shows described as “DJ Lavani”
- Stated concern
- Traditional Lavani certificates were allegedly being misused for live-DJ and obscene performances
- Circular date
- August 14