‘Jana Nayagan’ Release: Madras High Court Orders Grant of U/A Certificate to Film; CBFC Challenges Decision
'Jana Nayagan' was postponed from its original release date of January 9 due to non-issuance of the film’s censor certificate by the CBFC
After the release of actor Vijay’s film Jana Nayagan was postponed from its scheduled January 9, 2026 date owing to the Central Board of Film Certification’s failure to issue a censor certificate, the Madras High Court on Monday allowed a writ petition filed by KVN Productions LLP and directed the CBFC to grant the film a U/A 16+ certificate.
According to a report in The Hindu, the CBFC then made an immediate mention before the Chief Justice’s Bench for an urgent hearing of a writ appeal to be filed against the order.
The report further added that a request had been considered for an urgent hearing of the CBFC’s writ appeal against the order passed by Justice P.T. Asha, who had directed the board to issue the certificate, so that Jana Nayagan could be released during Pongal.
It also stated that he production company approached the court after the CBFC chairman referred their film to a revising committee despite the examining committee recommending a U/A 16+ certificate. The producers had invested about ₹500 crore and planned a worldwide release on January 9, but the release was pushed because the CBFC informed them only on January 5 that it would not accept the examining committee’s recommendation.
Directed by H. Vinoth, Jana Nayagan (titled Jana Neta in Hindi) was one of the most anticipated films of the year, especially considering it marks Vijay's final screen appearance before he enters politics full-time.
"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 January 9, has been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control," KVN Productions had officially confirmed in a statement earlier this week.
The production house assured audiences that a new release date will be announced once finalised and 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.”