Amid Jana Nayagan row, Assi actor Revathy talks about censorship and violence in films

Though the Assi actress Revathy declined to comment on the Jana Nayagan censor row, she did mention that it is ‘between the filmmakers, producers, and censor board and a bit of politics’.

Revathy, Jana Nayagan

The Tamil film Jana Nayagan, which is actor Vijay’s swan song, is unlikely to see an immediate theatrical release as it is yet to get a clearance from the censor board. Amid this, senior actress-filmmaker Revathy was also asked about the Jana Nayagan censor row. Though the Assi actress declined to comment on the Jana Nayagan row, she did mention that it is ‘between the filmmakers, producers, and censor board and a bit of politics’.

When Revathy was asked about Jana Nayagan row

Revathy, a popular actress who has acted across Malayalam, Tamil and Hindi industries, is also part of Jana Nayagan, although in a small role. Vijay’s much-anticipated film Jana Nayagan has been in trouble as the CBFC is yet to issue the censor certificate.

In a video released by Filmibeat, Revathy says, “I am only there in two scenes. I have not seen the full film. I don't know what the real issue is. I feel this is between the filmmakers, producers, and censor board and a bit of politics. I cannot speak about it without knowing it fully.”

The issue is currently in court, and the release of Jana Nayagan, initially announced as a Pongal film, continues to remain uncertain.

Also read: Jana Nayagan release date: February ruled out, as Vijay's last film causes 100-cr loss to TN theatres

What Revathy said about violence in films

But reacting to the larger context of censorship in cinema these days, Revathi said there are two parts to it.

"First, there should be creative freedom. Another is responsible filmmaking. So I feel that we have to find what is correct for us and make a film based on that. That's what I would do,” explained the actress, who has been in the industry for more than 4 decades. Revathy has also helmed movies such as Salaam Venky and the Tamil show Good Wife.

However, Revathy also remarked, "Sometimes, I feel we are going overboard with violence in cinema. That does not mean that's not the case in real life. It is a lot more worse in real life. But somehow I don't want to see the heroes who like doing certain things. It is a give-and-take between the censor board and the filmmakers."

Revathy’s next film is Assi, which will hit theatres on February 20, 2026. The trailer of the upcoming Hindi film, which features Taapsee Pannu and Kani Kusruti in key roles, was released recently. Revathy is also part of Malayalam film Patriot, starring Mohanlal and Mammootty, which will release in theatres on April 2, 2026.

Also read: Assi trailer: Taapsee Pannu looks solid as a fearless lawyer in Anubhav Sinha’s investigative courtroom drama

Assi movie FAQs

Q. When will Assi release in theaters?

A. Taapsee Pannu's movie Assi is set to release in theatres on February 20, 2026.

Q. Who are the actors in Assi?

A. Taapsee Pannu leads Assi along with Kani Kusruti, Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub.

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