Jana Nayagan censor row: Ajay R Gnanamuthu backs Vijay’s final film as release hangs in balance
With Thalapathy Vijay’s farewell film Jana Nayagan set for release on January 9, the movie has run into a major obstacle after the Madras High...
With Thalapathy Vijay’s farewell film Jana Nayagan set for release on January 9, the movie has run into a major obstacle after the Madras High Court ordered a fresh certification review by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The decision has triggered cancellation of early shows and widespread concern across the Tamil film industry.
Director Ajay R Gnanamuthu speaks out
Filmmaker Ajay R Gnanamuthu publicly voiced support for the team, calling the situation an “absolute misuse of power”. In a post on X, he stressed that a film represents the work of hundreds of people, adding that Jana Nayagan, billed as Vijay’s swansong before entering politics, deserves to be celebrated whenever it releases.
His remarks reflect growing industry unease over the timing of the certification process.
Why the release is in trouble
The controversy stems from the film’s delayed certification, despite the CBFC reportedly suggesting edits and muted lines on December 19, 2025. With no clearance issued even after a month, the producers approached the court.
On January 7, the High Court reserved its verdict until the scheduled release date and directed that the movie be examined by a new CBFC committee. As an immediate consequence, all shows before 10 am have been cancelled.
Crucially, the Tamil version’s certificate is mandatory before Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada dubs can be approved, putting the film’s nationwide rollout at risk.
Box office momentum despite uncertainty
Despite the legal impasse, audience interest remains strong. While BookMyShow temporarily removed the “Book Tickets” option in some cities, advance sales continue to show demand:
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Karnataka: Multiple single screens reported sold-out 6 am first-day-first-show tickets.
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Kerala: Early booking trends remain robust.
Exhibitors, however, warn that prolonged uncertainty could affect show schedules and revenue across states.
About the film
Directed by H Vinoth, Jana Nayagan features Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Priyamani and others. The film is widely seen as Vijay’s last theatrical release before his full-time political entry.