Thu Jun 26 17:24:18 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) revising committee has requested changes to the film “JSK – Janaki vs State of Kerala,” starring Union Minister Suresh Gopi. The committee wants the title and the protagonist’s name, Janaki, changed due to its similarity to the Hindu goddess Sita, arguing that a sexual assault victim shouldn’t be named after a goddess. This decision follows the film receiving a U/A certificate from the Thiruvananthapuram regional CBFC office, only to be challenged by higher officials in Mumbai. The filmmakers approached the Kerala High Court due to delays in certification, causing financial losses. Film bodies are now planning protests and legal action against the CBFC.

**News Article:**

**Film ‘Janaki vs. State of Kerala’ Faces Censor Board Hurdles Over Name Controversy**

**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, June 26, 2025** – The upcoming film “JSK – Janaki vs State of Kerala,” starring Union Minister Suresh Gopi, is embroiled in controversy after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) revising committee demanded significant changes to the film. The committee is insisting that the film’s title and the name of its protagonist, Janaki, be altered.

According to the film’s director, Pravin Narayanan, the CBFC’s concerns stem from the name “Janaki” being closely associated with the Hindu goddess Sita. The committee reportedly believes it inappropriate to name a victim of sexual assault after a revered deity.

This decision is a reversal of the initial approval granted by the Thiruvananthapuram regional office of the CBFC, which issued a U/A certificate on June 18. However, upon review by CBFC headquarters in Mumbai, higher officials raised objections.

The filmmakers sought intervention from the Kerala High Court due to significant delays in the certification process. These delays have reportedly resulted in substantial financial losses for the producers, who had already launched marketing campaigns and promotional events in anticipation of the film’s planned release on June 27.

The CBFC’s decision has sparked outrage within the film industry. Multiple film bodies are reportedly planning protests and exploring legal avenues to challenge what they perceive as censorship and unwarranted interference. The controversy has reignited the debate surrounding the CBFC’s role and its impact on creative freedom.

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