U, UA 7+, UA 13+, UA 16+, A: What India's Film Certificates Mean for Families
The old UA certificate has been split into three age bands. Here is what each rating means and how parents can use them this festive season.
If you are taking children to the cinema this festive season, the certificate on a film's poster is the first thing to check. India's film ratings changed recently, with the old "UA" split into age bands. Here is what each one means.
Who certifies films?
Every film shown in Indian cinemas must be certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which works under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, under the Cinematograph Act, 1952. The board can certify a film, ask for cuts, or refuse certification.
The ratings
- U (Universal): suitable for all ages.
- UA 7+: unrestricted public viewing, but parental guidance is advised for children under 7.
- UA 13+: parental guidance advised for children under 13.
- UA 16+: parental guidance advised for children under 16.
- A (Adults only): restricted to viewers aged 18 and above. Cinemas are expected to check.
- S: restricted to specialised audiences, such as doctors or scientists. Rarely used.
Why "UA" was split
Earlier, a single UA certificate covered everything from mild family films to quite intense thrillers, which told parents very little. The Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023 introduced age-based UA categories, and the new ratings have been in use since 2024. The aim is to give parents clearer information, much like the age ratings used in many other countries.
UA is guidance, not a ban
The UA ratings are advisory. A child under 13 can watch a UA 13+ film, but the rating tells parents that it may contain content, such as violence, language or themes, that they should consider first. Only an A certificate legally restricts entry.
What about streaming?
Films and shows made for streaming platforms do not go through the CBFC. Under the IT Rules, 2021, platforms classify their own content with similar labels (U, U/A 7+, U/A 13+, U/A 16+, A) and must provide parental controls. Use a separate, PIN-protected profile for children.
A quick checklist for parents
- Check the certificate on the booking app or poster.
- Read a short content description, as many reviews note violence or language.
- For UA films, consider the age band and your child's sensitivity.
- Remember that trailers and songs often play differently from the full film.
Planning an outing? See what is in theatres this October.
Sources
This article draws on the following reporting. Dates are when each source was originally published.
- Wikipedia: Central Board of Film Certification
- Wikipedia: Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023
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