The release of Tamil superstar Vijay's much-anticipated final film, 'Jana Nayagan', is shrouded in controversy and uncertainty as it navigates hurdles both internationally and domestically. Scheduled for a global release on January 9, the film's journey to the screens is proving to be as dramatic as its plot.
International Hurdles: The Saudi Arabia Certification Puzzle
Confusion reigns among fans as unconfirmed reports suggest that 'Jana Nayagan' could face a ban in Saudi Arabia. Social media platforms are abuzz with speculation that the film has not yet received the necessary clearance from Saudi authorities. According to online chatter, the film's team is prepared to reapply for certification after making a few cuts and audio mutes.
Interestingly, early reports from The Week present a conflicting picture, indicating that the film is still set to release in Saudi Arabia on its scheduled date at VOX Cinemas. However, the age rating for the release remains unclear. With no official confirmation from the producers or distributors, the status of the Saudi release hangs in the balance, adding to the pre-release anxiety.
Domestic Drama: CBFC Delay and Threat of Legal Action
The challenges are not limited to foreign shores. Back home in India, 'Jana Nayagan' is still awaiting certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Reports of suggested cuts have led to widespread speculation, with many industry observers and fans labeling the delay as a "political vendetta" against Vijay, who is poised to enter Tamil Nadu politics full-time after this film.
Earlier updates suggested that the CBFC did not recommend extensive corrections, and a revised version was promptly sent back to the committee. Under normal circumstances, the certificate should have been issued by now. The prolonged delay has reportedly pushed the film's makers to consider approaching the court if the certification is not granted in time for the planned release.
Theatre Owners Revolt Over Revenue Share Demands
Adding another layer of complexity, theatre owners in Tamil Nadu have voiced strong opposition to the film's revenue-sharing model. Tiruppur Subramaniam, President of the Tamil Nadu Theatre Owners Association, publicly criticized the producers for demanding an exceptionally high share of the collection.
Subramaniam revealed that the makers of 'Jana Nayagan' are asking for 75% to 80% of the theatre's collection. He contrasted this with the model for Vijay's previous film, 'GOAT', which had a 75:25 split in favor of the producers—a arrangement he claims resulted in losses for theatre owners. He advocates for a more sustainable 50:50 or 60:40 model.
Breaking down the financial strain, Subramaniam explained with an example: "A ticket costs Rs. 190, and tax is Rs. 42. If they charge 75% of the remaining amount, we will get only Rs. 37 for a ticket." He posed critical questions about the viability of such a deal: "Can we pay salaries? Can we pay EB bills? What can we do?"
He clarified that the theatre owners are not against sharing revenue but are seeking a fair deal. "We are ready to pay up to 70%," he stated, emphasizing that the demand for 75-80% in regions like Tirunelveli is excessive. He directly linked the high share demand to the slow advance bookings, stating, "That's why the booking is very slow. There is no other reason," and insisted this was a purely commercial dispute, not influenced by political pressure.
Directed by H. Vinoth and made on a colossal budget of Rs 400 crore, 'Jana Nayagan' stars Vijay alongside Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, and Pooja Hegde. Marketed as Vijay's cinematic swansong before he dedicates himself to politics, the film's pre-release phase is now dominated by talks of bans, censorship, and business disputes rather than its content or star power.
