Twist in ‘Jana Nayakan’ Release: Makers May Withdraw Court Case; How and Where Will the Film Release?

The long-awaited final film of South superstar Thalapathy Vijay, Jana Nayakan, remains caught in a legal tussle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and the saga is far from over. In a surprising twist, the makers are reportedly considering withdrawing their case from court. The big question now is: without CBFC certification, where and how will the film be released?

Initially slated for release on 9 January during Pongal, Jana Nayakan has kept fans on tenterhooks due to delays in certification. As Vijay prepares to transition fully into politics, this last cinematic outing carries enormous anticipation. However, the CBFC withheld certification, stalling the film’s theatrical release.

According to Telugu magazine Nakiran, the makers are now exploring alternative routes instead of continuing the legal battle. Two options are reportedly under consideration: either undergo the CBFC re-examination process or continue the court proceedings. However, the makers appear to be leaning towards a different approach, which could see Jana Nayakan presented in a new form. An official announcement on the release strategy is expected soon.

Legal Battle Over Certification

Earlier, KVN Productions had approached the Madras High Court seeking CBFC approval. Single Judge P.T. Asha directed the board to grant a U/A certificate. The CBFC, however, appealed against this order, resulting in a stay and postponement of hearings. The case eventually reached the Supreme Court, which declined to intervene, asking the makers to return to the High Court. Consequently, the matter is back before the Madras High Court with no clear resolution yet.

Fear of Delayed Release

The High Court has ordered a fresh hearing, canceling the previous single-judge order. With the case set for a new round of scrutiny, the makers fear that the release could be delayed by months. This concern is reportedly driving their decision to consider withdrawing the court case.

Origin of the Controversy

Directed by H. Vinod, Jana Nayakan faced certification hurdles even after the single-judge order. The CBFC’s Examining Committee had recommended a U/A certificate after some cuts, but CBFC Chairperson Prasoon Joshi sent the film to the Review Committee. The controversy escalated when a committee member filed a complaint citing scenes that allegedly tarnish the army’s image and hurt religious sentiments. A court hearing was held on 20 January, with the order reserved. Now, the makers are contemplating withdrawing their case.

What Next for the Release?

Without CBFC approval, a theatrical release is not legally possible. Past instances show that several films faced similar hurdles, either releasing directly on OTT platforms or undergoing last-minute cuts. For example, Shiv Karthikeyan’s Parashakti and Salman Khan’s 2014 film Jai Ho experienced delayed releases and content modifications.

Given this precedent, the makers of Jana Nayakan may opt to release the film on an OTT platform, possibly on a rental basis. The official release strategy is expected to be announced soon, following the withdrawal of the court case.