Last-minute censor hurdle for Jana Nayagan; Uncertainty over movie's release on Jan 9

In a sudden turn of events, Thalapathy Vijay's swansong movie ‘Jana Nayagan’ will have to undergo a censor review by a newly appointed committee. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has apprised the Madras High Court of this decision. The movie was earlier scheduled to be released on January 9th as a Pongal release.

The makers of the movie had to approach the Madras High Court after CBFC denied a certificate despite the movie being submitted to them almost one month back. The censor committee said there were scenes in the movie that could possibly hurt religious sentiments. However, some of Vijay’s loyal followers alleged that Union Minister L Murugan was settling political scores by delaying the movie’s release.

With the matter to be heard on January 7th, there is ambiguity about the pan-India release of Vijay’s movie on the previously agreed date. It is said that on December 19th, the board had suggested the makers remove certain scenes and mute some dialogues. The makers said they duly followed these instructions, but still failed to receive the certificate.

After hearing both sides, the Madras High Court judge asked CBFC to submit a copy of the complaint on Wednesday. The makers said that any change in the release date would incur heavy losses for them. The movie was made at a budget of Rs 500 crore.