'Jana Nayagan' release delay: OTT partner withdraws its deal on the Thalapathy Vijay starrer

The digital release plans for 'Jana Nayagan,' starring Vijay, have reportedly run into trouble as the film continues to face delays in getting its censor certificate. Directed by H. Vinoth, the political action thriller has been under scrutiny and controversy for the last few months because of issues pertaining to its certification. The film was initially scheduled for a theatrical release on January 9, 2026, but the release was postponed after the Central Board of Film Certification did not grant clearance in time.

OTT platform withdraws Rs 120 crore deal amid controversy

According to a report by Thanthi TV, the film’s OTT rights deal has now been cancelled amid the ongoing controversy. It is reported that the leading streaming platform had acquired the digital rights of the film for around Rs 120 crore. With this development, the film's digital release plans are now uncertain.

Objections over scenes lead to a revising committee review

The certification issue began when a member of the CBFC’s examining committee reportedly raised objections to certain scenes in the film. The concerns related to visuals believed to hurt religious sentiments and the portrayal of the armed forces. Due to these objections, the film was sent to a revising committee rather than a direct answer, and such problems created more problems that pushed its release, inviting more discussion about the future of the film.

Legal battle and fresh review push release further

While a single bench of the Madras High Court allowed the CBFC to issue the certificate to the film, the order was stayed by a division bench of the Madras High Court. Later, the Supreme Court also chose not to interfere in the matter. Following these developments, the makers decided to submit the film again for examination by the revising committee rather than continuing the legal case. As the film still awaits certification, reports suggest its theatrical release may now happen only after the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, adding more uncertainty to one of the most anticipated films of Vijay’s career.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”