Kochi- The new Malayalam film "Janaki vs State of Kerala" (JSK), starring BJP MP and actor Suresh Gopi, has been barred from release by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film was scheduled to hit theaters on June 27, 2025, but is now embroiled in a legal battle after the CBFC objected to the use of the name "Janaki" for its female protagonist.

The film follows Janaki (played by Anupama Parameswaran), a woman who becomes a victim of a brutal crime. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Advocate David Abel Donovan (Suresh Gopi), who helps her challenge India’s judicial system in her quest for justice.

The supporting cast includes Madhav Suresh, Divya Pillai, Baiju Santhosh, Kottayam Ramesh, and Shruti Ramachandran. Cinematographer Renadive captures the film’s emotional depth, while Samjith Mohammed’s editing enhances its gripping narrative. The haunting musical score by Ghibran intensifies the film’s dramatic impact.

CBFC’s Objection: "Janaki" Name Deemed Religious Offense

During a hearing at the Kerala High Court, CBFC’s legal counsel argued that as per central government guidelines, the name "Janaki" (an epithet of Goddess Sita) cannot be used for a character who suffers sexual violence. The board insisted that the film would only be certified if the name was changed.

However, the film’s production house, Cosmos Entertainments, refused to comply, stating that the name "Janaki" appears 90 times in the movie and altering it is not feasible.

Director Pravin Narayanan lashed out at the CBFC in a Facebook post, writing, "Is the Taliban ruling India, dictating that films can’t use deities’ names? Hinduism has 33 crore gods and goddesses—are we now banning these names for people and movies? This is extremist fascist behavior."

He clarified that the film is a courtroom drama based on real-life incidents, with no connection to mythology or religious tales.

High Court Questions CBFC’s Logic

The production company approached the Kerala High Court, seeking urgent certification for the film’s global release. The filmmakers revealed that their certification application was submitted on June 12 via CBFC’s e-Cinepramaan portal, but the board neither issued a certificate nor formally communicated objections. Notably, the film’s teaser was previously cleared without any issues over the name.

The production company argued that the delay violates Article 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech) and 19(1)(g) (freedom of profession) of the Indian Constitution, causing significant financial losses.

During the hearing, Justice N Nagaresh questioned the CBFC’s stance, remarking, "If the rapist were named Ram, Krishna, or Janaki, we might understand. But here, the victim is fighting for justice—how is this offensive?"

The court criticized the board’s interference, stating:
"Will you now dictate what names filmmakers can use? What’s wrong with ‘Janaki’? How does it insult religion? Artists have creative freedom—you can’t interfere without valid justification."

The court has directed the Deputy Solicitor General of India (DSGI) to file a response explaining CBFC’s objections.