Janaki v/s State of Kerala controversy: HC questions CBFC's demand to change title
Additionally, the HC questioned the CBFC as to why the film was not allowed to use the name Janaki, given that there have been movies that were titled after gods.
Last Updated: 05.10 PM, Jun 30, 2025
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had voiced concerns over the title and the name of the main character in Suresh Gopi's most recent Malayalam film, Janaki v/s State of Kerala, which has caused chaos in its release process. Recent reports state that the Kerala High Court has questioned the rationale behind CBFC's demand for changes.
Kerala HC's statements on Janaki v/s State of Kerala issue
During a hearing on June 30, the court pointed out that given that the same board had approved the teaser for Janaki v/s State of Kerala, why had they prohibited the film's release? Additionally, it questioned the CBFC as to why the film was not allowed to use the name "Janaki", given that there have been movies that were titled after gods. The DSGI has also been ordered by the High Court to submit a thorough report explaining why the name is not permitted in the movie. On July 2, the court will re-examine the matter.
Film associations like AMMA and FEFKA, meanwhile, commenced their strike today (June 30), in protest of CBFC's demand that the main character, performed by Anupama Parameswaran, should have a new name and title.
Makers of JSK refused to make alterations
As Janaki is a Hindu goddess' name, the Central Board of Film Certification denied the movie's release. In order to avoid delaying the film's theatrical release, the producers have reportedly been instructed to make the necessary changes as quickly as possible. The June 27 theatrical screening of this film was impeded by the board's action.
In a press meet, the producers subsequently confirmed that they have no intention of changing things up and will pursue legal action against the CBFC's move. The makers said, "This impacts many people's hardwork, schedules, and money." Pravin Narayanan, the film's director, claimed that the more than 90 cuts that the CBFC has suggested would have a big effect on the plot and the film on the whole.