‘Jana Nayagan’ team moves court over CBFC certification delay ahead of January 9 release

With just days to go before its planned theatrical debut, the makers of ‘Jana Nayagan’ — actor Vijay’s much-anticipated farewell to cinema — have moved the Madras High Court, seeking urgent intervention over the delay in issuing a censor certificate.

An emergency petition has been filed on behalf of production house KVN Productions, urging the court to direct the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to expedite the certification process. The High Court is scheduled to hear the matter at 2.15 pm, with the January 9 release date fast approaching. 

According to industry sources, ‘Jana Nayagan’, directed by H Vinoth, was submitted to the CBFC on December 18. The board reportedly suggested minor modifications, which the filmmakers accepted immediately. Despite this, the final certificate is yet to be granted, triggering widespread uncertainty across the exhibition sector.

The hold-up has had a ripple effect across Tamil Nadu, where advance bookings for both ‘Jana Nayagan’ and ‘Parasakthi’ have been stalled. Theatre owners, wary of opening booking windows without official clearance, have postponed ticket sales, leaving fans frustrated ahead of the festive Pongal period. ‘Parasakthi’, starring Sivakarthikeyan, is slated for release on January 10.

The delay has also drawn a sharp political response. Leaders from Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Vijay’s political outfit, have publicly voiced their displeasure. Earlier in the day, Deputy General Secretary CT Nirmal Kumar warned that the party would consider “next steps” if certification is not granted within hours, alleging that CBFC officials have been sitting on the film’s file since mid-December.

Amid the uncertainty, tickets for ‘Jana Nayagan’ have reportedly gone on sale in select theatres outside Tamil Nadu, intensifying speculation and anxiety among fans awaiting an official announcement.