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**Summary:**

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has finally approved the release of a re-edited version of the Malayalam film, “Janaki V. v/s State of Kerala,” after initially denying certification due to the protagonist’s name, Janaki (another name for the goddess Sita), being associated with a victim of sexual violence. The changes include subtle alterations in a courtroom scene and the adjusted title. The filmmakers prioritized getting the film released quickly and agreed to the changes. This decision comes after a petition to the Kerala High Court, where a judge reviewed the film and the court criticized the CBFC’s initial demands as a threat to creative freedom. The CBFC cited the depiction of a character named Janaki being subjected to rape and aggressive cross-examination as reasons for their initial refusal.

**News Article:**

**Malayalam Film ‘Janaki V. v/s State of Kerala’ Cleared for Release After Censor Board Compromise**

*KOCHI, July 12, 2025* – After a protracted battle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), the Malayalam film “Janaki V. v/s State of Kerala” has been granted a U/A certificate and is slated for release on July 17th. The film, directed by Pravin Narayanan and starring Suresh Gopi and Anupama Parameswaran, was initially denied certification due to the CBFC’s concerns over the protagonist’s name, Janaki, which is also a name for the Hindu goddess Sita.

The CBFC argued that depicting a character named Janaki as a victim of sexual violence, particularly during an aggressive courtroom cross-examination, was objectionable. This led to a revised version of the film being submitted, featuring minor adjustments to a three-minute court sequence and a slight alteration to the title.

“Releasing the film in theaters as soon as possible was our priority,” stated director Narayanan, explaining the decision to comply with the CBFC’s demands.

The production company, Cosmos Entertainments, had previously filed a petition with the Kerala High Court seeking a directive for the CBFC to issue certification. High Court judge N. Nagaresh reviewed the film on July 5th, 2025, and the court earlier criticized the CBFC’s initial stance as “a challenge to the freedom of creative expression.” Despite this, the filmmakers ultimately chose to make the requested changes to secure the film’s release. The controversial film is expected to generate significant interest following the censorship dispute.

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