Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor Vijay is making headlines regarding his upcoming film, *Jan Nayakan*. After considerable controversy, the film is finally set for theatrical release. Producer K. Venkata Narayana discussed the modifications requested by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) before granting the film its certificate.

**Objectionable dialogue in the film**
One of the significant changes made to the H. Vinoth-directed film involved a dialogue drawing a parallel between Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Constitution and the constitution of Vijay’s party, 'Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam' (TVK). According to the producer, the original dialogue stated, "If Ambedkar's Constitution is not followed, then the TVK constitution will be implemented."

**Easier to comprehend**
Narayana further explained that the meaning of the dialogue was far simpler than interpreted. Speaking to NDTV, he said, "If you do not follow the Constitution, what will the consequences be? It was presented in a way that is easier to understand. It is everyday language. Even at home, you tell a child that if they don't follow established rules, they will have to face the consequences."

**Reasons for CBFC's directives for modification**
He added, "Since it involved political language, we were asked to modify it. We respect the laws of the land. Wherever they asked for changes, we implemented them."

**Directives issued by the CBFC**
In total, the CBFC ordered the removal of a segment lasting approximately 20 seconds and the alteration of about 10 seconds of footage.
Apart from the Ambedkar-TVK dialogue, the Censor Board instructed the makers to change the cover of a book that featured a picture of Dr. Ambedkar. Several religious references were either muted or removed. The words 'Bhagavathan', 'Ranganathar', and 'Om' were muted in the soundtrack, while the word 'Om' was specifically removed from the dialogue explaining 'Operation Meluha'.

What certificate did the film receive?
Reacting to the censorship, Narayan stated that the film industry operates based on the Censor Board's certification, leaving them with no choice but to comply. The filmmakers had submitted 'Jan Nayakan' in December 2025, and a five-member examining committee had initially recommended a U/A 16+ certificate subject to certain cuts.

Film referred to the Revising Committee.
The film was resubmitted after making the changes, but the CBFC Chairman referred it to the Revising Committee, stalling the entire process.
This led to a legal battle in the Madras High Court, after which the filmmakers withdrew their petition and resubmitted the film; it was finally approved with an 'A' certificate. It is now scheduled for theatrical release on July 23.

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