Janaki vs State of Kerala Release Halted Over CBFC Objection to Lead Character’s Name

The release of the Malayalam courtroom drama Janaki vs State of Kerala has been postponed after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) reportedly objected to the film’s title and the name of its lead character, Janaki, portrayed by Anupama Parameswaran. The film, which was originally scheduled for a June 27 release, also features Suresh Gopi as a senior lawyer aiding the titular character in her fight for justice following a traumatic incident.

Director Pravin Narayanan took to social media to announce the delay, attributing it to the unexpected stand taken by the CBFC’s Mumbai office. Speaking to the press, Pravin revealed that they were set to receive their certification last Friday but were verbally informed that the character’s name had to be changed. “We’ve requested a written explanation,” he stated, adding that the regional censor board had earlier cleared the film without demanding any cuts, only debating whether the rating should be UA 16+ or UA 13+, which was eventually resolved.

Pravin emphasized that altering the character’s name at this stage is not feasible, explaining, “It would require 92 cuts, and doing so would destroy the film’s very soul.” The CBFC has not yet issued an official response to the director’s claims. For now, Janaki vs State of Kerala remains in limbo, caught between artistic integrity and regulatory hurdles.