CHENNAI, January 9, 2026
High Court Clears ‘Jana Nayagan’ for Release, Cutting 27 Scenes
A legal battle ended Friday with the Madras High Court ordering the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a U/A 16+ certificate to actor Thalapathy Vijay’s highly anticipated film, “Jana Nayagan.”
- The Madras High Court directed the CBFC to certify “Jana Nayagan” with a U/A 16+ rating.
- A petition filed on January 6 regarding the film’s certification was allowed by the court.
- The film’s release, initially slated for January 9, 2026, had been postponed due to the certification issue.
- The CBFC is expected to appeal the decision, but the TVK is prepared to continue the legal fight.
- Fans celebrated the court’s decision with street celebrations and distribution of sweets outside the Madras High Court.
The court’s decision offers significant relief to Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Thalapathy Vijay, whose film faced uncertainty ahead of its planned theatrical debut. The ruling came days after production house KVN Productions announced a postponement, citing “unavoidable circumstances” beyond their control. The delay sparked concern among fans eager to see what is anticipated to be Vijay’s final movie before entering politics, especially with the 2026 assembly elections in Tamil Nadu looming.
Justice PT Asha of the Madras High Court issued the directive to the censor board. Indra Dhanraj, joint coordinator for the state legal wing of TVK, explained that a petition was filed on January 6 specifically addressing the lack of certification. “The matter was postponed, and today the order was pronounced. The writ petition has been allowed by the MHC. If the movie is not screened on time, it will be a huge loss for people, so reimbursement is being given,” Dhanraj told reporters. She also revealed that lawyers were informed 27 scenes had been requested for cuts, and the TVK is ready to challenge any appeal filed by the CBFC in court.
Thalapathy Vijay in “Jana Nayagan.”
In response to the court’s order, the Censor Board is preparing to file an appeal with the Chief Justice’s Bench, challenging the single judge’s decision. Despite this potential hurdle, the news has ignited celebrations among Vijay’s devoted fanbase. Supporters took to the streets, and advocates from TVK’s legal wing distributed sweets outside the Madras High Court, expressing their joy and relief.
The legal proceedings surrounding “Jana Nayagan” have cast a shadow over its release for several days. The film’s postponement was announced via a statement from KVN Productions, which expressed the team’s “heavy heart” over the decision. The production house emphasized that the delay was due to factors outside of their control, leaving fans anxiously awaiting further updates.
