
Advance ticket booking for two of Tamil cinema’s most anticipated January releases, Jana Nayagan and Parasakthi, has been delayed due to pending clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), leaving fans and exhibitors in a state of uncertainty just days ahead of release.
Jana Nayagan, starring Vijay, is scheduled to hit theatres on January 9, while Parasakthi, headlined by Sivakarthikeyan, is slated for a January 10 release. Despite the massive buzz surrounding both films, advance bookings in Tamil Nadu are yet to open, largely because theatres are waiting for the mandatory censor certificate before finalising show timings and ticket sales.
The delay has caused frustration among fans eager to secure tickets early, especially given the scale of anticipation around both projects. Theatre owners, particularly single-screen exhibitors, are also under pressure. Industry norms require cinemas to wait for CBFC certification to avoid last-minute disruptions if cuts or dialogue changes are ordered. While some theatres briefly considered opening bookings without the certificate, most have opted to hold back to avoid potential complications.
Interestingly, advance bookings for both films have already begun in neighbouring states like Karnataka and Kerala. Early trends from these regions suggest a strong response, with reports of impressive opening-day sales. However, Tamil Nadu, the key market for both films, remains on hold.
According to reports, the CBFC has suggested a few minor revisions to Jana Nayagan, including modifications to certain dialogues. Although the makers are believed to have agreed to these changes, the final certificate is yet to be issued. The film’s political undertones are being cited as one of the reasons for the delay. The issue has also drawn political attention, with a representative from Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam questioning why the certificate has not been issued despite a UA rating reportedly being recommended weeks ago.
Directed by H Vinoth, Jana Nayagan features Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol and Mamitha Baiju, and is especially significant as it marks Vijay’s final film before his full-time entry into politics. Parasakthi, co-starring Ravi Mohan, is set against the backdrop of the anti-Hindi protests of the 1960s, another politically sensitive theme.
With release dates fast approaching, all eyes are now on the CBFC, as exhibitors and audiences await clarity that will finally allow bookings to open in Tamil Nadu.
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