Thalapathy Vijay’s high-profile film Jana Nayagan, directed by H Vinoth, is currently being filmed in Kodaikanal and has drawn fans and attention alike.

The film also stars Pooja Hegde and Bobby Deol, with music by Anirudh Ravichander, and is scheduled for a Pongal 2026 release.

However, the production has run into controversy after allegations emerged that the film crew violated Kodaikanal’s stringent ban on plastic bottles, especially 1-litre and 2-litre water bottles. This region in Tamil Nadu is known for its strict environmental protection measures, including rigorous enforcement of the plastic ban through vehicle inspections.

According to reports, the Jana Nayagan team was found using the prohibited items despite these regulations, drawing criticism from local residents and environmentalists. The incident has raised questions about enforcement fairness, as tourists are often fined for similar violations, while film crews appear to operate with leniency.

Locals are calling out what they see as a double standard, demanding accountability from both the film production team and local authorities. The controversy has triggered a wider debate on the responsibility of film productions in environmentally sensitive zones like Kodaikanal.

As anticipation builds for the film’s release, the issue underscores the need for consistent enforcement of environmental regulations and a stronger commitment to sustainable filmmaking practices in India.