Thalapathy Vijay’s new film Jana Nayagan has finally been released after the certification process was completed. The film was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), a step in which directors were asked to make 12 changes to the movie, including removing references to TVK and removing a picture of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Originally to be released on January 9, the film was delayed when the CBFC denied certification and wanted multiple edits. After all the minor modifications, the producers have the certification, and the film should now be released.
CBFC Requested 12 Changes
According to reports, the CBFC reviewed the film and recommended a total of 12 modifications before issuing the censor certificate.
Some of the key changes reported to be requested are:
- Removing references to "TVK", the acronym for Vijay's political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
- Blurring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's image in one of the scenes.
- Making some changes to some dialogues and images necessary according to the certification guidelines.
- Some minor changes to scenes and background to comply with CBFC regulations.
The Board's recommendations were implemented by the filmmakers to obtain certification for theatrical release.
Political References Attracted Attention
Among the most talked about changes is the removal of TVK references from the film.
Since Vijay entered politics with the launch of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, any direct (or indirect) political reference in his movies received wide interest from the public. Although the CBFC has not publicly disclosed the reasons behind each edit, it is claimed that references to the political party were included in the change request before certification.
Neither the CBFC nor the film's producers have disclosed the full list of changes.
Ambedkar Image Blurred
Another major modification is the blurring of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the film.
The CBFC has instructed the makers to hide the image before release, and the Board has not publicly explained the reason for this. These alterations are usually part of the certification process, when the Board believes certain visuals need to be modified to meet existing guidelines.
Release Finally Back on Track
With the requested edits completed, Jana Nayagan has now cleared the certification process and is well on the way to theatrical release.
Vijay's fans have been very excited about the movie since it was announced. Besides being one of the biggest Tamil movies of the year, it attracted a lot of attention not only because of the actor becoming more politically active but also because of the censor process.
And fans are looking forward to Vijay’s big screen return.
Social media has been abuzz with reactions to the CBFC modifications reported by the filmmakers, and fans are eagerly awaiting the release day of the film. Industry experts believe Vijay's huge fan base, the hype of the movie (which is already very big), and the pre-release buzz will give the movie a strong chance to open at the box office and become a hit.
How CBFC Certification Process Work?
In India's Cinematograph Act, all films that are intended for public exhibition need to be certified by the Central Board of Film Certification. In the process of the review, the CBFC can recommend changes, disclaimers, or edits if it believes some content needs to be modified before public viewing.
As for Jana Nayagan, the changes needed are part of the standard certification process and not a ban. With the changes made, the film is now ready to meet the audience in theatres.
