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Madras High Court directs CBFC to grant U/A 16+ certificate
January 9, 2026: The release roadblock faced by Vijay’s much-awaited film Jana Nayagan has been resolved after the Madras High Court directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a U/A 16+ certificate. The order ends days of uncertainty surrounding the film’s censor clearance and paves the way for its theatrical release, bringing relief to the makers ahead of the crucial Pongal window.
Justice PT Asha delivered the verdict after detailed hearings involving counsel for KVN Productions and the Additional Solicitor General representing the CBFC. During proceedings, it emerged that the delay was triggered by a complaint from a member of the CBFC’s examining committee, raised after the film’s screening and not included in the original observations. The CBFC chairperson had subsequently paused the certification process, citing the authority to review the film post-screening.
The producers highlighted the high financial stakes involved, telling the court that nearly ₹500 crore was at risk due to the delay, even as advance bookings had opened in multiple states and overseas markets. Directed by H Vinoth, Jana Nayagan stars Vijay alongside Mamitha Baiju, Pooja Hegde and Bobby Deol. Slated for a January 9 release, the film has drawn added attention as it is expected to be Vijay’s final on-screen appearance before his political entry under the TVK banner.