Jason Shah Reacts as Jana Nayagan Remains Stuck Over Censor Clearance

Actor Jason Shah, who plays a pivotal role in Thalapathy Vijay's upcoming film Jana Nayagan, has broken his silence on the ongoing censor certification controversy that has delayed the movie's theatrical release. In an interview with Screen, Shah expressed his disappointment over the postponement from the original January 9, 2026 date, while reflecting on the broader intersection of religion, politics, and cinema in India. The film, directed by H. Vinoth, remains stalled as legal proceedings continue.

The controversy stems from a complex certification dispute with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). A single judge of the Madras High Court had previously directed the CBFC to issue a UA certificate to Jana Nayagan. However, following an urgent plea by the Censor Board, a division bench of the High Court stayed that order, prompting the film's producers to approach the Supreme Court for resolution. The CBFC has argued that the movie features emblems associated with the armed forces, necessitating review by subject matter experts before clearance. The matter is now scheduled for a full hearing on January 21, 2026, effectively pushing back the release until at least that date.

Addressing the situation, Jason Shah admitted he is not deeply familiar with the intricacies of the certification process, as it falls outside his area of expertise. He stated, "I was really excited that the film was releasing on the 9th. I am not 100 percent sure about the certification or what goes on. I have never fully understood the process; it's not my department." He went on to offer a candid observation about the influence of external factors on filmmaking, saying, "But religion and politics always have something to do with movies. Whoever is voted in as the ruling party has 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."

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Shah also touched upon the challenges faced by actors in the digital age, highlighting how technology amplifies public scrutiny and criticism. He remarked, "Freedom of speech with technology is the deadliest combination of them all." Acknowledging the dual nature of fame, he added that public figures must accept intense examination as part of the profession: "As an actor, you also put yourself in the line of fire and accept that you are a public figure up for public scrutiny. If you don't like it, don't be an actor." He emphasized that while many are drawn to the glamour and financial rewards, they must be prepared for unfiltered opinions from audiences who pay to watch their work.

Jana Nayagan marks a significant project for Vijay, the popular Tamil actor and founder of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) political party, as well as for Shah, known for his performance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Netflix series Heeramandi. The film has generated considerable anticipation among fans, but the certification row has introduced uncertainty. Neither Vijay nor the production team has issued an official statement on the developments so far, leaving the outcome dependent on the upcoming Supreme Court proceedings.

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