New Delhi | January 15, 2026
In a significant setback for the makers of ‘Jana Nayagan’, believed to be Tamil superstar Thalapathy Vijay’s final film before entering active politics, the Supreme Court on Thursday declined to grant urgent relief in the ongoing censor certificate dispute. The case now returns to the Madras High Court, which will hear the matter on January 20.
Supreme Court Declines Immediate Intervention
A bench of Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Augustine George Masih refused to intervene, noting that the case is already scheduled before the High Court’s division bench.
“We will not interfere at this stage,” the bench said, directing the producers to pursue relief before the High Court when it reconvenes.
The Supreme Court also instructed the Madras High Court to complete the hearing and issue its judgment on January 20.
Producers Cite Massive Release Plans
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing KVN Productions, argued that the makers have already booked over 5,000 theatres and publicly announced the release date.
He said the delay in obtaining the censor certificate is causing major financial and logistical strain.
What Sparked the Dispute?
The conflict originated after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) withheld certification:
Objections Raised: A complaint alleged that certain scenes in Jana Nayagan hurt religious sentiments and misrepresented the Indian Armed Forces.
Revising Committee Roadblock: Although the Examining Committee cleared the film with cuts, the CBFC Chairperson referred it to the Revising Committee, causing further delays.
High Court Split:
On January 9, a single-judge bench ordered the film to receive a U/A 16+ certificate.
The same day, the division bench stayed that order, pushing the case toward today’s Supreme Court hearing.
About ‘Jana Nayagan’ — Vijay’s Farewell Film
The film has drawn widespread attention as it is considered Thalapathy Vijay’s final movie before shifting full-time to political life.
Cast & Crew:
Directed by H. Vinoth
Featuring Thalapathy Vijay, Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Prakash Raj
What Happens Next?
With the Supreme Court refusing immediate relief, the release of Jana Nayagan now depends entirely on the Madras High Court’s verdict on January 20.
Fans and theatre owners are hoping for a swift decision allowing the film to reach cinemas without further delays.
