Jana Nayagan and Parasakthi Bookings Delayed in Tamil Nadu Due to Pending CBFC Clearance

Advance ticket bookings for two of Tamil cinema’s most anticipated Pongal releases — Jana Nayagan and Parasakthi — remain stalled across Tamil Nadu due to a delay in receiving censor certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The uncertainty has left theatre owners and distributors in a wait-and-watch mode just days ahead of the films’ scheduled theatrical releases.

Jana Nayagan, headlined by Vijay, is slated for release on January 9, while Parasakthi, starring Sivakarthikeyan, is expected to hit theatres on January 10. However, without the mandatory CBFC certificate, exhibitors across the state have refrained from opening advance bookings, causing concern among fans and trade circles.

Exhibitors Hesitant Amid Certification Uncertainty

The absence of censor clearance has posed operational challenges for theatres, particularly single-screen cinemas that rely heavily on advance planning during festival releases. Theatre owners are reportedly unwilling to open bookings without official certification, fearing last-minute changes in runtime, mandatory cuts or dialogue modifications that could disrupt show schedules.

Industry tracking suggests that the CBFC has proposed certain minor edits to Jana Nayagan, including dialogue modifications and trims. While it is widely believed that the makers have agreed to these suggestions, the final certificate is still awaited. Parasakthi, which also carries strong political themes, is reportedly under scrutiny for similar reasons.

Political Themes Under the Scanner

Both films deal with politically sensitive subjects, which is being cited as one of the primary reasons for the extended certification process. Jana Nayagan, directed by H. Vinoth, is widely seen as a politically charged film and is also Vijay’s final on-screen release before his transition into full-time politics. This has amplified attention around the film, both from audiences and regulatory bodies.

Parasakthi, meanwhile, is set against the backdrop of the anti-Hindi agitations of the 1960s, a historically sensitive subject in Tamil Nadu. Trade observers believe that the political undertones in both films have contributed to the cautious approach being taken during the certification process.

Impact on Tamil Nadu vs Overseas Markets

While bookings in Tamil Nadu remain frozen, the situation is notably different in other markets. Jana Nayagan and Parasakthi have already opened advance bookings in overseas territories as well as in neighbouring states like Karnataka and Kerala. Early trends from these regions indicate a strong initial response, with promising opening-day figures reported.

Multiplex chains outside Tamil Nadu have also faced partial delays but are reportedly better positioned to adjust schedules once certification is confirmed. In contrast, theatres within Tamil Nadu are under mounting pressure as the Pongal holiday window is crucial for box office recovery and footfalls.

Growing Anxiety Among Fans and Trade

The delay has triggered intense discussion on social media, with fans expressing frustration over the lack of clarity so close to release. Trade analysts note that while certification delays are not uncommon for high-profile films, the combination of political themes and festival timing has made the situation more sensitive.

Some theatres are said to be considering opening online bookings at short notice once the certificate is issued, even if it leaves limited time for promotion. For now, most exhibitors continue to hold back, prioritising regulatory compliance over aggressive booking strategies.

With release dates fast approaching, all eyes remain on the CBFC’s final decision. Once certification is granted, bookings are expected to open rapidly across Tamil Nadu, setting the stage for a competitive and closely watched Pongal box office battle between Jana Nayagan and Parasakthi.