Kamal Ghorui
The eagerly awaited film, ‘Jana Nayagan,’ starring Thalapathy Vijay, is going to be a disastrous loss for the producers, as it has been leaked on the internet. Initially, around five minutes of footage surfaced on the internet, which quickly spread across several platforms, followed by the entire film being leaked online. The unexpected piracy incident shocked the film’s producers and Vijay’s fans. The production house immediately released a strong warning asking people not to download or share the leaked content. They also stated that strict civil and criminal action would be taken against those involved in spreading the pirated copy. Several cinema stars responded emotionally to the leak incident by condemning the situation and supporting steps to combat piracy syndicates.
‘Jana Nayagan’ illegal telecast creates fresh controversy
Even while the organization was dealing with reputational harm after the online leak, a second bombshell hit. On April 11, the film ‘Jana Nayagan’ was reportedly telecast on a local cable TV channel in parts of Coimbatore district. According to Nakkheeran, the illegal broadcast took place in Karumathampatti and nearby areas. This development surprised many fans of Vijay, as the movie has not yet received a proper theatrical release. Several viewers in the area noticed the telecast and informed local supporters of Vijay. Soon after, TVK district administrator Mohanapriya filed a complaint at the Karumathampatti police station, demanding strict action against those responsible for screening the unreleased film on cable television.
Cable operator arrested and equipment seized
Police went to the location of the complainant and found the cable operator who had illegally shown the film. The police also arrested Palanisamy, who was accused of the illegal telecast of the movie ‘Jana Nayagan.’ The accused was produced in court and sent to judicial custody. Additionally, the police confiscated all paraphernalia used in the telecast, such as a computer and five hard disks, along with the cable operator. Sealing the cable house office was also part of the investigation. Officials believe that the seized devices may help trace the source of the pirated copy and reveal how the film reached the cable network.
Censor issues and release delays added to the film’s troubles
The piracy problems come at a time when ‘Jana Nayagan’ is already facing delays due to certification issues with the Central Board of Film Certification. The film’s producers had approached the courts to resolve the issue but later withdrew the case and resubmitted the movie for certification. Reports suggest the censor board recommended that the Election Commission of India should make the final decision because the election code of conduct was in force. Due to these complications, the film’s planned release on January 9 was postponed several times, affecting overseas and OTT business deals. Meanwhile, investigations into the piracy case are continuing.
