Heeramandi actor Jason Shah, who plays a significant role in the much-anticipated Vijay-starrer Jana Nayagan, has broken his silence on the film's ongoing censorship controversy. The movie, which marks Vijay's final film before his expected full-time political plunge, has seen its planned January 9 release derailed due to delays in obtaining certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
What is the Jana Nayagan Censor Controversy?
The controversy began when the CBFC, after initially recommending a U/A 16+ certificate with suggested cuts, abruptly put the certification process on hold. The board cited concerns that certain scenes could potentially hurt religious sentiments. Furthermore, it sought expert opinion on portions of the film depicting the armed forces.
Following this, the film's producers approached the Madras High Court. A single-judge bench ordered the CBFC to clear the film with the U/A certificate. However, in a twist, a division bench comprising Chief Justice M M Shrivastava and Justice G Arul Murugan granted an interim stay on this order after the CBFC filed an appeal. This legal back-and-forth has effectively stalled the film's release indefinitely.
In a subsequent move, the makers have now approached the Supreme Court, challenging the High Court's stay order. The next hearing in the Madras High Court is scheduled for January 21.
Jason Shah's Candid Take on Politics and Scrutiny
In an exclusive conversation with SCREEN, Jason Shah expressed his disappointment over the release delay. "I was really excited that the film was releasing on the 9th," he said. While admitting he isn't fully versed in the certification process, he offered a broader perspective on the forces at play.
"Religion and politics always have something to do with movies," Shah stated. "Whoever is voted in as the ruling party, they have been given the country in their hands to decide what happens. Your voting causes these kinds of decisions, so if you have done that, then also sit back and be happy."
Actor on Manufactured Campaigns and Public Scrutiny
Shah also weighed in on the phenomenon of manufactured negative campaigns targeting films and actors, calling it a new norm. He linked it to the power of technology combined with freedom of speech.
"Freedom of speech with technology is the deadliest combination of them all," he remarked. Shah advised that actors must be prepared for intense public scrutiny as part of the job. "As an actor, you also put yourself in the line of fire and accept that you are a public figure and up for public scrutiny. If you don't like it, don't be an actor," he said, adding that actors often chase fame and money but must be ready to be examined from head to toe.
The fate of Jana Nayagan, one of the most awaited Tamil films of the year, now rests with the judiciary. Fans of Vijay Thalapathy continue to await a final resolution that will allow the actor a cinematic farewell before his political journey begins.
