Janaki v/s State of Kerala: HC to watch the Suresh Gopi-starrer ahead of proceedings
Janaki v/s State of Kerala - The HC stated during the July 2 hearing that he would like to see the movie prior to making a decision regarding the producer's petition for certification of the movie.
Poster of Janaki v/s State of Kerala
Last Updated: 04.55 PM, Jul 02, 2025
The Kerala High Court issued a new decision regarding the Janaki v/s State of Kerala dispute today (July 2). The decision follows the confusion in the release process caused by the Central Board of Film Certification's (CBFC) dispute over the title and the name of the main character in Suresh Gopi's upcoming Malayalam film.
HC to watch Janaki v/s State of Kerala
Justice N Nagaresh stated during the July 2 hearing that he would like to see the movie before the proceedings begins and prior to making a decision regarding the producer's petition for certification of the movie. The filmmakers have been instructed by the bench to schedule their viewing of Janaki v/s State of Kerala for July 5 at 10 am.
Concerns regarding the film's main character's name, who is a victim of sexual assault seeking justice, were raised by the Central Board of Film Certification ahead of its theatrical release. During the recent hearing, the Kerala High Court questioned the logic behind CBFC's demand for revisions.
Furthermore, it asked the CBFC why the movie was not permitted to use the name "Janaki" in light of previous films with god-inspired titles. The High Court further mandated that the DSGI should provide a comprehensive report outlining the reasons the name is not allowed in the film.
Film associations' strike against CBFC
In the meantime, associations such as AMMA and FEFKA went on strike on June 30, against CBFC's demand to make alterations in the movie. The board's action prevented this movie from being shown in theatres on June 27. The makers are also devastated that the release has also been temporarily halted. The producers stated in a press conference that they move forward with legal action against the CBFC and have no plans to change anything in Janaki v/s State of Kerala. The film's director, Pravin Narayanan, asserted that the proposed alterations of more than 92 changes would significantly impact the story, artistes' time and money.