Janaki Title Row: High Court Grills Censor Board Over Suresh Gopi-Starrer; Film Fraternity Rallies In Protest

Janaki Movie Controversy: The Kerala High Court on Monday issued strong remarks against the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in the ongoing controversy surrounding the Malayalam film Janaki vs State of Kerala. The court questioned the legal basis of the Board's objection to the film's title, particularly the use of the name "Janaki", and warned against interference with artistic freedom.

According to a report by Reporter Live, the court asked how the name Janaki could be deemed unlawful, observing that most names in Indian society have religious or cultural origins. It also pointed out that the role of the CBFC is not to direct filmmakers on creative choices. The bench has directed the CBFC to clarify why the name "Janaki" cannot be used and adjourned the matter to Wednesday for further hearing.

During an earlier hearing, the High Court had demanded an explanation for why a show-cause notice was served to the film's makers and asked the Board to produce the Revising Committee's decision, which had recommended withholding certification unless the film's title was changed. While the Board argued that the title could be interpreted as religiously sensitive and in violation of guidelines, the court did not accept that reasoning. Names such as Janaki and Geetha are commonly used, the court noted, and asked whether the Board was suggesting a different name be imposed.

Filmmakers Dump Scissors in Protest

Meanwhile, members of Kerala's film fraternity staged a protest in front of the CBFC office in Thiruvananthapuram, reported Asianet News. Organized by the Joint Action Committee, the demonstration included symbolic gestures such as dropping scissors into a dustbin, underlining opposition to censorship. The protest was launched with the words, "Start, Camera, Action, No Cut."

Janaki vs State of Kerala, directed by Pravin Narayanan, stars Suresh Gopi and Anupama Parameswaran in lead roles. The film, a courtroom drama, was set to release on June 27, 2025, but was halted following the CBFC's objection to the title. The filmmakers are seeking an urgent resolution to enable the film's certification and release.