Actor-turned-politician Vijay’s highly anticipated film Jana Nayagan has been postponed from its original January 9 release, following a delay in the issuance of its censor certificate. The decision was announced on Wednesday evening by producers KVN Productions, who cited “unavoidable circumstances” linked to the certification process.
The delay has raised questions over what went wrong and when the trouble began.
Directed by H. Vinoth, Jana Nayagan marks Vijay’s final appearance on the big screen before he transitions fully into politics. The announcement significantly heightened expectations, leading to unprecedented advance bookings, particularly in overseas markets.
The makers submitted Jana Nayagan to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on December 18. Following the initial screening, the examining committee reportedly flagged certain scenes and suggested multiple cuts. The producers complied, making around 27 edits as per the board’s recommendations—details later submitted before the Madras High Court.
The revised version was resubmitted on December 22. According to the producers, the CBFC’s regional office subsequently communicated that the examining committee had recommended a U/A 16+ certificate. However, despite this assurance, the official certificate was not issued.
After several days without clarity, the CBFC referred the film to its Revising Committee on January 5 and directed the producers to approach its Mumbai office. The board later told the court that the production house had been informed of this step via email. The CBFC maintained that there was no ulterior motive behind the referral.
With only three days left for release, KVN Productions moved the Madras High Court on January 6, seeking immediate issuance of the censor certificate. The producers argued that the delay was unwarranted and could result in losses running into hundreds of crores, as tickets had already been sold and release logistics finalised.
They also pointed out that while a majority of the five-member examining committee favoured a U/A 16+ certificate subject to cuts, one member later submitted a complaint to the CBFC Chairperson, prompting further scrutiny.
During the hearing on January 7, the CBFC informed the court that the referral to the revising committee followed a complaint alleging that the film hurt the sentiments of a minority community. The board also flagged concerns over the depiction of defence force emblems. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court reserved its order.
Later that evening, KVN Productions announced that Jana Nayagan would not release as scheduled. In a statement, the producers expressed regret over the postponement, citing circumstances beyond their control, and assured fans that a new release date would be announced soon.
The High Court’s order is expected on January 9. However, regardless of the verdict, the film cannot release immediately. Even if the ruling favours the producers, the certification process will need to be completed afresh. An adverse order could trigger further appeals, extending the delay.
The postponement has already had significant financial repercussions. Exhibitors have begun issuing refunds as advance bookings surged in the days leading up to the release. In Chennai, black-market ticket prices reportedly touched Rs 5,000. According to trade tracker Sacnilk, the film had already collected Rs 10.68 crore domestically, including blocked seats, ahead of release.
Despite the uncertainty, Jana Nayagan posted record overseas advances, outperforming other Sankranti and Pongal releases scheduled for the same period. The Vijay-starrer reportedly amassed close to Rs 32 crore from international markets for its opening day, driven by strong demand in North America, the UK, and Malaysia.
With Vijay’s final film, massive financial stakes, and a pending court verdict, Jana Nayagan now finds itself in a precarious holding pattern. The industry and fans alike await clarity on the CBFC process and the legal outcome that will determine the film’s path to release.
