The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has denied certification to the Malayalam film Janaki vs State of Kerala, triggering widespread protests within the Malayalam film industry. The film stars Union Minister and actor Suresh Gopi alongside actress Anupama Parameswaran in lead roles.
The refusal has drawn sharp criticism from the industry, with members of AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists) and the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) staging a protest in front of the CBFC’s regional office in Kerala. Participants condemned the board’s stance, stating that such interference undermines creative freedom. They argued that accepting the board’s demand to change the film’s title would require significant alterations to the script and dialogues.
Directed by Praveen Narayanan, Janaki vs State of Kerala is a courtroom thriller carrying the tagline “Truth Always Triumphs.” Anupama Parameswaran plays the titular role of Janaki, while Suresh Gopi appears as a lawyer. The CBFC raised objections over the use of the name ‘Janaki’—a name associated with the goddess Sita—for a character portrayed as a victim of assault, deeming it inappropriate and requesting a title change.
In response, the film’s producers have approached the court, challenging the CBFC’s delay and refusal to issue certification. They have sought judicial intervention to secure approval for the film’s release.