Chennai/New Delhi: Jana Nayagan, the final film featuring actor Vijay before his formal entry into politics, has run into major hurdles ahead of its release. The film’s release has been repeatedly delayed amid a growing controversy over its certification. The Madras High Court imposed a stay on the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) clearance for the film, prompting the producers to approach the Supreme Court. However, the apex court dismissed the plea and directed the makers to seek relief from the Division Bench of the Madras High Court. The Supreme Court also asked the High Court to hear the matter and take an appropriate decision by the 20th of this month.
Certification Dispute at the Core
The controversy centres on allegations that the core theme of the Telugu film Bhagavanth Kesari, starring Balakrishna and directed by Anil Ravipudi, was adapted and altered in Jana Nayagan to align with Vijay’s political ideology. It is further alleged that political, social and caste-related elements were added to the script, triggering concerns during the certification process.
According to the makers, the CBFC sought the removal of certain scenes and the muting of some dialogues and agreed to grant the film a U/A 16+ certificate. The producers said they accepted the board’s suggestions and submitted the final version of the film. However, they alleged that the CBFC subsequently declined to issue the certificate and, at the last minute, referred the film to a Revising Committee.
Legal Battle Continues
Questioning how the certification decision could be altered after the process had been completed and a U/A 16+ clearance had been indicated, the producers approached the Madras High Court, which imposed a stay on the certification. The makers then challenged the order in the Supreme Court, but the apex court refused to intervene, leaving the matter to be decided by the Madras High Court Division Bench.