The sudden delay in the release of Jana Nayagan, widely expected to be Vijay’s final film before his full-time political entry, has resulted in what is being termed the largest ticket refund in Indian cinema history. The postponement has reportedly cost the film’s makers and ticketing platforms nearly ₹1 crore in India alone.
Jana Nayagan was scheduled to release on January 9, coinciding with the Pongal festive weekend. However, just two days before its planned release, the makers announced an indefinite postponement after the film failed to receive certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). By that time, advance bookings were in full swing, with lakhs of tickets already sold across the country and overseas.
Following the announcement, ticketing platforms such as BookMyShow initiated a massive refund exercise. Industry trackers estimate that over 4.5 lakh tickets were refunded in India, amounting to approximately ₹1 crore. The refund figures for international markets are believed to be even higher.
In response to the delay, the film’s producers and Vijay approached the Madras High Court seeking relief. On Friday, the court instructed the CBFC to grant Jana Nayagan a U/A 16+ certificate and clear it for release. Despite the directive, certification has reportedly not yet been completed, with claims that the CBFC may appeal the order.
The film holds immense significance as it is being promoted as Vijay’s final cinematic outing before entering politics full-time. The actor is set to contest the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Party members have alleged that the delay in certification is a deliberate attempt to stall his popularity ahead of the polls.
Directed by H Vinoth, Jana Nayagan also stars Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, and Mamitha Baiju in key roles. As of now, the makers have not announced a revised release date.