No release for Jana Nayagan till Jan 21, Madras HC in fresh setback for Vijay

Mangalore Today News Network

Chennai, January 9, 2026: The Madras High Court on Friday stayed the single judge order which ordered the Censor Board to grant a UA Certificate to Vijay-starrer Jana Nayagan. The court has now posted the case for January 21, after the Pongal holidays.

Jana Nayagan, touted to be Vijay’s swansong before he turns a full-time politician, was originally scheduled to be released today, January 9. 

On Friday morning, the Madras High Court ordered the Censor Board to issue a UA certificate once the modifications were made by the filmmakers. The court also pulled up the board for entertaining such complaints against the film, calling it a "dangerous trend."

Soon after the Madras High Court verdict regarding the certificate, the Censor Board appealed against the order and sought an urgent hearing in the matter with the court later in the day.

Appearing for the production house, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi presented his arguments. Representing the CBFC, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) AR L Sundaresan contended that the single-judge order was passed without giving the board an opportunity to file a counter affidavit. He further argued that the production house’s petition did not challenge the CBFC Chairman’s decision to refer the film to a Revising Committee, yet the judge had quashed that decision in the final order.

The Chief Justice questioned the process, asking how a single judge could issue such an order without hearing the CBFC’s side. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta also argued that the CBFC Chairman has the authority to refer a film to the Revising Committee.

On the other side, Rohatgi questioned how a member of the Examining Committee could file a complaint against the film. The Chief Justice further raised concerns about the producer pressuring the court to grant certification and remarked that the release date should not have been announced before obtaining the final certificate.

The Censor Board had also argued that Jana Nayagan features emblems related to the armed forces, which, it claimed, should be examined by experts.

Jana Nayagan was poised for a worldwide coordinated release today with screenings across the US, the UK, Malaysia, and Canada. 

Earlier, on January 7, KVN Productions issued a statement announcing the postponement of the release of Jana Nayagan. "It is with a heavy heart that we share this update with our valued stakeholders and audiences. The release of Jana Nayagan, eagerly awaited on 9 January, has been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control," read the note.

They further added, "We deeply understand the anticipation, excitement, and emotions surrounding this film, and this decision has not been an easy one for any of us. The new release date will be announced at the earliest. Until then, we humbly request your patience and continued love. Your unwavering support is our greatest strength and means everything to the entire Jana Nayagan team."

Jana Nayagan also stars Bobby Deol and Pooja Hegde.