Madras High Court Grants UA Certificate to Jana Nayagan, Easing Vijay’s Concerns

The Madras High Court recently enabled the issuance of a UA certificate for the film Jana Nayagan, alleviating concerns of its lead actor Vijay, who is considering a full-time political career. This decision came after a series of events surrounding the film’s certification status.

Background on Jana Nayagan

Jana Nayagan was initially set for release on January 9, 2026. However, the film faced substantial delays due to issues regarding its Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) approval. The film’s production company, KVN Productions, sought legal intervention after the CBFC required significant modifications, citing excessive violence and potential communal sensitivities.

Madras High Court Intervention

On January 7, the Madras High Court reviewed the certification complaints and highlighted concerns about the CBFC’s decision-making process. The court criticized the board for entertaining what it termed “afterthought” complaints that could set a troubling precedent.

Subsequently, the court ruled that a UA certificate should be granted, pending minor modifications. This ruling came just as the film’s original release date approached, leading to a postponement of its debut.

Statements from the Makers

• The filmmakers expressed regret over the delay, stating it was due to “unavoidable circumstances beyond our control.”
• They acknowledged the audience’s anticipation for the film and requested patience regarding the new release date.

Impact on Ticket Sales

Following the postponement announcement, refunds for advance ticket purchases began immediately. Theatre operators confirmed that:

• Online ticket buyers would receive automatic refunds.
• Patrons with cash tickets could process refunds directly at the cinema.

Certification Controversies

The CBFC’s hesitation to approve the film stemmed from concerns about its depiction of violence and the use of a defense emblem without prior clearance. Furthermore, the board suggested that some scenes might provoke communal disharmony, necessitating further scrutiny before certification could be granted.

Initially, the filmmakers believed they would receive a UA certificate after complying with the required cuts, but last-minute objections from the board delayed the process.

Cast and Crew

Directed by H. Vinoth, Jana Nayagan features an ensemble cast that includes:

• Pooja Hegde
• Bobby Deol
• Mamitha Baiju
• Gautham Vasudev Menon
• Priyamani
• Narain

As the situation evolves, updates regarding the film’s new release date will be announced promptly, ensuring that fans stay informed about the much-anticipated film.