As the clock ticks down to the release of Vijay’s Jana Nayagan, uncertainty over the film’s theatrical rollout has begun to reflect on ticketing platforms, with advance bookings quietly disappearing in several parts of the country.

In multiple cities, including Chennai, Kolkata, Chandigarh and Hyderabad, the ‘Book Tickets’ option for the film is no longer visible on BookMyShow, effectively freezing online ticket sales just a day ahead of the scheduled release. The sudden change has left moviegoers puzzled and exhibitors cautious, amid unresolved issues surrounding the film’s censor clearance.

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The disruption comes against the backdrop of proceedings before the Madras High Court, where the Central Board of Film Certification’s decision to reopen the certification process has been challenged by the producers. The court had directed the CBFC to constitute a fresh committee to re-examine the film, placing its certification status under renewed scrutiny.

After hearing arguments from both sides, the High Court on Tuesday reserved its orders in the matter. During the hearing, the Bench raised questions over the manner in which the certification process was reopened and expressed concern over the impact of the delay on the producers.

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Legal sources indicate that the verdict is likely to be delivered on January 9, coinciding with the film’s announced release date. With the court’s decision still pending, exhibitors have reportedly put advance ticket sales on hold in key markets to avoid last-minute disruptions.

On January 6, when the plea came up for hearing, Justice Asha orally asked the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to produce on Wednesday a copy of the "complaint" that claimed the film "hurts religious sentiments."

The filmmakers had submitted that the movie had been referred for "review" after an initial recommendation for U/A certification.

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Even though a release date has been fixed for the film, it can only proceed legally, the Censor Board had submitted in the court.

Directed by H Vinoth, the film 'Jananayagan' stars actors Vijay, Prakash Raj, Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, among others.

The film team, having completed all work, sent it for censorship on December 18.

Subsequently, on December 19, the censor board that viewed the film reportedly advised the removal of some scenes and muting of some dialogues.

Even after changes suggested by the censor board members were made, the censor certificate has still not been issued, the petitioner movie production house had submitted.