V. Janaki vs State of Kerala to be submitted for re-censoring on Friday-OxBig News Network

The makers of the Malayalam film Janaki vs State of Kerala on Thursday began re-editing the film as per the demands made by the Central Board of Film Certification. Filmmaker Pravin Narayanan told The Hindu that he plans to submit the revised version of the film, starring Union Minister Suresh Gopi, for re-censoring by Friday. He said the producers decided to give in to the demands as releasing the film in the theatres at the earliest was the priority.

The censor board had denied certification over the protagonist’s name of Janaki, another name of goddess Sita, arguing that a victim of sexual violence cannot be named after a goddess. In the High Court, the CBFC’s counsel further argued that sequences of an advocate from another community cross-examining her would create divisive narratives between religious groups and pose a severe threat to public order.

Name muted

“We have muted all mention of ‘Janaki’ which comes up a few times during a three-minute court sequence. The CBFC had argued that this could hurt religious sentiments. Although the demand is illogical, our intention was to release the film quickly. So we have made changes in such a way that it will not affect the film too much. The title has also been changed to V. Janaki vs State of Kerala,” said Mr. Narayanan.

Actor’s silence

The initial denial of the certification as well as the changes made to the film following pressure from the CBFC has led to a major debate in the socio-political sphere in Kerala on the precedent that the episode will set for the future. Filmmakers as well as cultural commentators have raised apprehensions of similar demands being made to makers of upcoming films. Mr. Gopi’s silence over the whole controversy has also become a talking point within the industry and outside.