The cinematic farewell of superstar Thalapathy Vijay has been plunged into uncertainty as the release of his highly anticipated final film, 'Jana Nayagan,' faces a major roadblock. With the scheduled worldwide release on January 9 looming, the film's producers have been forced to take the legal route, filing an urgent petition in the Madras High Court against the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Urgent Legal Move as Censor Certificate Stalls
In an unprecedented move just days before the premiere, the production team behind 'Jana Nayagan' moved the court seeking immediate direction to the CBFC. The petition, filed on behalf of the production company, requests the court to instruct the censor board to issue the certificate without further delay. The film was submitted for certification on December 18, and while the board suggested minor edits, the team complied promptly.
However, reports indicate that the CBFC has held back the certificate even after the suggested revisions were made. This last-minute hurdle, with merely three days left for the grand Pongal festival release, has left the entire industry in a state of suspense. The Madras High Court has acknowledged the urgency of the matter, scheduling it for immediate consideration.
Theatre Chains and Political Outcry Add to the Chaos
The delay has sent shockwaves through the exhibition sector across South India. While some multiplexes in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka have cautiously opened advance bookings, single-screen theatres are refusing to commit without the official censor certificate. Distributors and exhibitors point out that such a prolonged delay is unheard of for a Vijay-starrer, especially during the crucial Pongal season.
Adding a political dimension to the crisis, Vijay's political party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has voiced strong objections. TVK Deputy General Secretary CT Nirmal Kumar issued a statement warning of further action if the certification is not granted within hours. He emphasized that the file has been pending with the CBFC since mid-December.
A Crowded Pongal Clash Now Mired in Certification Woes
The situation is further complicated as another major Pongal release, Sivakarthikeyan's 'Parasakthi,' is reportedly facing similar certification delays. This twin setback threatens to turn the already competitive festive box office battle into a logistical nightmare. All eyes are now on the Madras High Court's decision, which will determine the fate of one of Indian cinema's most awaited releases.
The industry and millions of fans await clarity, hoping for a swift resolution that will allow 'Jana Nayagan,' directed by H. Vinoth, to hit screens as planned and give Thalapathy Vijay a fitting cinematic send-off.
