Thalapathy Vijay's highly anticipated film, 'Jana Nayagan', has found itself embroiled in a significant censorship controversy, leading its producers to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court of India. The film, touted as Vijay's final cinematic appearance before his full-time foray into politics, was originally slated for a worldwide release on January 9, 2026, coinciding with the Pongal festivities. However, its release was abruptly postponed due to a standoff with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The dispute arose after an examining committee of the CBFC, following an initial screening on December 19, 2025, recommended a 'U/A 16+' certificate with certain modifications. Despite the makers incorporating the suggested changes, the film was subsequently referred to a revising committee based on a complaint regarding a scene deemed religiously offensive. This action led KVN Productions, the film's banner, to approach the Madras High Court. A single judge initially directed the CBFC to issue the 'U/A 16+' certificate on January 9. However, this relief was short-lived as the CBFC promptly appealed the decision, and a division bench of the Madras High Court granted an interim stay on the certification, listing the next hearing for January 21. In response to the interim stay and the looming uncertainty, KVN Productions has now moved the Supreme Court, requesting an urgent hearing as early as January 12. The prolonged delay has caused considerable disappointment among fans and has triggered substantial financial repercussions for distributors, with reports indicating refunds amounting to approximately ₹60 crore due to the missed Pongal release window. The situation has also drawn comments from political and film fraternity figures, including Kamal Haasan and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who have voiced concerns about creative freedom and the CBFC's functioning. The fate of 'Jana Nayagan' now rests with the Supreme Court, as the film's team and fans eagerly await a resolution to this high-profile legal battle.