In a dramatic turn of events for Tamil cinema superstar Vijay’s highly anticipated film ‘Jana Nayakan’, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has refused to grant it a censor certificate. This last-minute hurdle comes just days before its scheduled worldwide release, throwing the entire production team into uncertainty.
The examining committee of the CBFC, after multiple screenings and deliberations, cited several objectionable scenes, dialogues, and visual elements that allegedly promote violence, caste discrimination, and political incitement. Sources close to the certification process reveal that the board demanded over 20 cuts and modifications, which the filmmakers rejected outright, standing firm on their artistic vision.
‘Jana Nayakan’, directed by the acclaimed H. Vinoth and produced under the Lyca Productions banner, stars Vijay in a powerful role as a fearless social reformer battling systemic corruption. The film’s bold narrative has already sparked controversies with political parties accusing it of targeting specific leaders and ideologies ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections.
Undeterred by the CBFC’s decision, the producers have approached the Madras High Court seeking urgent intervention. The matter has been fast-tracked, with the court agreeing to hear the case on the very day of the film’s planned release. Justices S.M. Subramaniam and R. Sakthivel will deliver their verdict, which could either greenlight the uncut version or impose restrictions that might delay the premiere indefinitely.
Industry insiders are closely watching this development, as it reignites the ongoing debate about creative freedom versus regulatory oversight in Indian cinema. Vijay’s fans, who have been camping outside theaters for weeks, expressed their frustration on social media, trending hashtags like #ReleaseJanaNayakan and #FreeVijayCinema.
As the clock ticks towards the release date, all eyes are on the Madras High Court. A favorable ruling could mark a landmark victory for filmmakers challenging censor board overreach, while an adverse decision might set a precedent for stricter content controls in politically charged films.