cobra Director Ajay R Gnanamuthu has offered public support to the team behind Thalapathy Vijay’s much-awaited film. Jan NayganAfter the delay in the film’s release. Gnanamuthu made his statement on social media, outlining the collective effort involved in filmmaking and addressing the emotional and financial aspects associated with large-scale projects.

The postponement comes as the film faces certification issues, with a final decision on its release pending a court order.

In his post, Gnanamuthu wrote, “Complete abuse of power.. No film is just about one person, it involves the efforts and money of hundreds of people to get a film to the screen. All power to the team, this is Thalapathi’s film and his farewell film, and whenever it releases we will celebrate it like never before!! Thalaivan Padam Ippo Release Oh Appo Theater Pakkam Poring (I will step inside the theater when my leader’s film releases). #Pongal postponed #Jannanayagan (sic).”

The post has drawn attention to the wider industry impact of film certification and release delays.

delay of Jan Naygan There is a controversy regarding certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film’s producer, KVN Studios, argued in court that since the recommended cuts and modifications had already been made to the film, the screening committee had initially agreed to give it a U/A 16+ certificate.

KVN Studios has highlighted the enormity of the project by stating an investment of Rs 500 crore and a planned release date of January 9. They applied for certification under the urgent procedure in the hope of expediting the process, but had to wait further as a result of a review by a new committee.

The CBFC chairperson decided to send the film to a review committee after a complaint was filed alleging that the film had hurt the sentiments of the minority community and featured certain defense symbols. CBFC said that the Chairman retains the right to review the film until the certificate is formally issued.

During the court proceedings, Justice PT Asha questioned the CBFC’s decision to order a fresh review after the necessary cuts had already been made by the production team. The Board responded that if the Chairperson was not satisfied with the recommendations of the inquiry committee, the film could be sent to a new committee for reconsideration.

The board also told the court that the production company was informed about the reconsideration through email on January 5. Addressing the timing of this notification, the CBFC said that there was “no ulterior motive” in referring the film for further review.

KVN Studios argued that the majority of the screening committee had approved the film, while one member later raised concerns, leading to prolonged deliberations.

The final decision on the release of the film now rests with the Madras High Court, which has reserved its order after hearing both the sides.