South superstar Thalapathy Vijay’s much-anticipated film ‘Jana Nayagan’ faced another setback in its release. Originally scheduled for January 9, 2026, the movie could not hit theatres due to the non-availability of a censor certificate. On January 27, the Madras High Court delivered a major ruling that has sent the film’s fate back to the courts.

The High Court quashed the earlier single-judge order that had directed the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) to issue a certificate to the film. Now, the case has been referred back to the single bench, which must rehear the matter and issue a fresh decision.

Earlier, the makers had approached the Supreme Court after the single bench order, but the Supreme Court refused to intervene, directing the petitioners to approach the High Court instead. A hearing was held on January 20, and the verdict has now been reserved for rehearing.

Concerns Over Military and Religious Content

The High Court bench, comprising Chief Justice M.M. Shrivastava and Justice G. Arul Murugan, noted that certain scenes related to the military and religious sentiments need careful consideration. The single judge, Justice P.T. Asha, should have allowed the CBFC time to file a counter-affidavit, the court said.

Next Steps

The makers have been given the liberty to seek an urgent hearing before a single judge. Meanwhile, the matter has also been referred to the Review Committee to examine the sensitive content in the film. Fans and industry watchers are now waiting to see when the single bench will rehear the case and whether the film will finally get its censor certificate.