JSK – Janaki Vs State Of Kerala Release Halted: CBFC Blocks Suresh Gopi’s Film Over Use Of ‘Janaki’ In Title

JSK Faces Release Hurdle As CBFC Objects To Title: The scheduled release of JSK - Janaki vs State Of Kerala, a Malayalam courtroom thriller starring Suresh Gopi and Anupama Parameswaran, has hit an unexpected roadblock. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has withheld clearance for the film, citing objections to the use of the name "Janaki" in both the title and within the film.

Directed by Pravin Narayanan, JSK was set for a global theatrical release on June 27. However, in a last-minute development, the CBFC reportedly directed the makers to remove or alter the name "Janaki," stating that it is a reference to a revered Hindu deity. The board's intervention has effectively stalled the release.

In a post shared on social media, director Pravin Narayanan expressed disappointment, confirming that the film will not hit screens as scheduled. "Janaki has been denied screening by the censor board! There will be no release on the 27th!" he wrote.

This film also holds added significance as it marks Suresh Gopi's first major screen appearance since taking office as a Union Minister. While the actor has not issued a statement on the issue, others in the industry have weighed in. According to a report by Asianet News, FEFKA General Secretary B. Unnikrishnan revealed that he had spoken directly to Suresh Gopi, who reportedly attempted to intervene. Despite this, the board's stance has remained unchanged.

Unnikrishnan also pointed out that the Kerala regional censor board had previously granted the film a U/A 13+ certificate with no cuts. He added that the name "Janaki" is mentioned nearly 100 times throughout the film, raising questions about the feasibility of making such extensive alterations. FEFKA has indicated plans to protest the board's decision.

JSK Explores A Legal Battle Through Janaki's Story

JSK - Janaki vs State Of Kerala follows the story of Janaki, a woman seeking justice after a traumatic event. The narrative unfolds within Kerala's legal system, with Suresh Gopi playing the role of her attorney.

J Phanindra Kumar serves as the producer, with the project jointly developed by Cosmos Entertainments and Karthik Kreations. It features an ensemble cast including Divya Pillai, Sruthy Ramachandran, Askar Ali, Madhav Suresh Gopi, and Baiju Santhosh. The film's technical crew includes cinematographer Renadive, editor Samjith Mohammed, composer Ghibran, and music director Gireesh Narayanan.

As of now, the release of JSK remains in limbo, pending a resolution over the naming dispute.