Veteran cinematographer PC Sreeram has slammed the delay in censor certification for Vijay’s final film, ‘Jana Nayagan,’ calling it a shame for the Indian state. The controversy highlights concerns over potential government pressure on regional cinema. While officials cite administrative protocols, the Supreme Court has directed the Madras High Court to expedite a decision on the producer’s plea.

The delay of Vijay‘s highly anticipated final film, ‘Jana Nayagan’ has triggered a storm in the Tamil film industry. Helmed by H Vinoth, the film was delayed for a censor certificate, triggering major concerns. The processes, which are otherwise often taken for granted, snowballed into a controversy with filmmakers and technicians concerned about the pressure that Indian cinema, especially regional cinema is currently facing. Amidst the heated debate, veteran cinematographer PC Sreeram took to social media to express his sharp criticism over the delay.

PC Sreeram’s strong statement on democracy

PC Sreeram took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a post that read: “The strength of the Indian state is fighting over one cinema. What a shame”. The post went viral in no time. In another tweet, Sreeram asserted that his comments are not restricted to ‘Jana Nayagan’. He highlighted his concerns over the potential misuse of government agencies in all fields, including cinema. This, he suggested, was a cause for concern for the entire democratic country, irrespective of whether the governments were state or central. Underscoring India’s democratic legacy, he added pointedly, “This is the land of Mahatma Gandhi, not Donald Trump.”

Political allegations and legal developments

Echoing Sreeram’s concerns, several industry observers and social media users have questioned the timing of the certification delay, expressing concern that it could negatively impact the momentum of Vijay’s final film. In response, officials have maintained that the timeline is strictly a result of standard administrative protocols and the detailed review process required by the Central Board of Film Certification. The decision-makers’ move to court also proved to be of no immediate benefit to them. The Supreme Court dismissed a plea filed by the producer Venkat K. Narayana seeking expedited censor clearance, directing the matter back to the Madras High Court and asking it to deliver a final decision by January 20.

Release plans and rising expectations

‘Jana Nayagan, featuring Mamitha Baiju, Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, Narain, Prakash Raj, Sunil, among others, was initially expected to have a sweeping release during Pongal on January 9. But the delay has only compounded the excitement surrounding the film, touted as a significant landmark release marking Vijay’s final film appearance before commencing his full-fledged political presence.