Censor certification delays have pushed Vijay’s last film, Jana Nayagan, beyond its planned January 9 release. Recently, Heeramandi fame Jason Shah, who plays a key role in the film, spoke to SCREEN and shared his views on the controversy surrounding Jana Nayagan’s release. He also weighed in on manufactured negative campaigns, which he said have seemingly become the norm in the industry today.
What is the Jana Nayagan controversy?
Jana Nayagan is Vijay Thalapathy’s final film, after which the actor is expected to shift to politics full-time. With excitement running high, fans had been eagerly awaiting its Sankranthi release on January 9. However, the film did not receive clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Reports suggest that the CBFC had initially recommended a U/A 16+ certificate, asking the makers to trim a few scenes and implement certain changes. Later, however, the board reportedly put the certification on hold, citing concerns that certain scenes could hurt religious sentiments. It also reportedly sought expert intervention for portions depicting armed forces in the film.
Also Read: Vijay-starrer Jana Nayagan’s maker moves SC against lower court order
After the CBFC backed down from their initial certification, the makers approached the Madras Court which ordered CBFC to clear the film with a U/A 16+ certification. However, the division bench, comprising Chief Justice M M Shrivastava and G Arul Murugan, on an appeal filed by the CBFC, granted an interim stay against the single judge’s verdict, thereby stalling the film’s release.
Jason Shah reacts to the Jana Nayagan controversy
Jason Shah, who also plays an important role in Jana Nayagan, exclusively spoke to SCREEN about the censor board row and said, “I was really excited that the film was releasing on the 9th. I am not 100 percent sure about the certification as to what goes on. I have never actually fully understood the process; it’s not my department. But religion and politics always have something to do with movies. Whoever is voted in as the ruling party they have been given the country in their hands to decide what happens. Your voting causes these kinds of decisions, so if you have done that, then also sit back and be happy.”
Jason further spoke about films and actors facing manufactured smear campaigns within the industry. He shared, “Freedom of speech with technology is the deadliest combination of them all. As an actor, you also put yourself in the line of fire and accept that you are a public figure and up for public scrutiny. If you don’t like it, don’t be an actor. A lot of actors look at the money, fame, and all the nice things, but also need to be ready to get scrutinized from head to toe. People will say what they feel about you when they pay for it, so why not?”
Jana Nayagan controversy: Current status
The next hearing in the case will take place on January 21 before the Madras High Court. Meanwhile, the makers on Monday also moved the Supreme Court, appealing against the High Court’s order.
Click here to follow Screen Digital on YouTube and stay updated with the latest from the world of cinema.
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
Leave a Reply