The upcoming Suresh Gopi starrer Janaki Vs State has found itself embroiled in a controversy after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) raised objections to the film’s title. The CBFC has specifically demanded that the makers drop the word ‘Janaki’ — a name widely associated with Goddess Sita — from the title, leading to a halt in the film’s release until the issue is resolved.
Suresh Gopi staarer Janaki Vs State faces CBFC roadblock over title; Kerala Film Fraternity protests
Janaki Vs State revolves around the harrowing story of a girl named Janaki who is a victim of sexual assault. It appears that the CBFC’s Mumbai office objected to the use of the name, reportedly believing that such a character’s name should not be associated with a revered deity. Interestingly, the film had earlier received clearance from the regional CBFC office in Thiruvananthapuram, which had greenlit the release without raising any concerns. However, when the film was later sent to the Mumbai board for final certification, the objections were raised.
This move has sparked widespread protests within the Kerala film industry. The Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) has publicly condemned the decision, calling it an unnecessary interference in creative freedom. Industry members argue that names like Janaki are commonly used in day-to-day life and should not be restricted based on religious associations alone.
Filmmaker M.B. Padmakumar also came forward to recount a similar experience with his film Token Number. He revealed that his film, which features a character named Janaki Abraham, faced unofficial demands to change the name after initial clearance from the Trivandrum office.
Padmakumar further claimed that the concerns extended to the combination of the names Janaki and Abraham, hinting at objections regarding the interfaith connotation. He alleged that the communication happened informally over WhatsApp calls and speculated that this could be an individual interpretation rather than an official policy of the central government.
As the dispute escalates, the film’s release remains uncertain while the debate over censorship, creative liberty, and cultural sensitivity continues to intensify.
Also Read: Suresh Gopi wins elections in Thrissur, Kerala
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