‘Jana Nayagan’: a timeline on the twisting path to theatrical release
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay's final film as an actor has officially been released following months of certification delays. The release marks a significant cultural moment as the star transitions fully into his political career after his party's recent election victory.
Why it matters
Illustrates the intersection of celebrity culture and political power in Tamil Nadu, where film stars frequently transition into governance.
The makers of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay’s last film (as an actor) announced the film’s release date for the second time on July 15, but this time, it was final. After months of waiting, fans flocked to theatres today (July 23, 2026) to catch Vijay’s farewell to acting.
Back in January, when the production firm had announced the movie’s earlier release date for the first time, the Central Board of Film Certification had yet to grant the movie certification. What followed was a protracted back-and-forth with the court and the CBFC over delays in certification until a nine-member review committee granted the movie an ‘A’ certificate.
Roughly seven months after the initial announcement, the makers announced July 23 as the film’s final release date.
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