Anupama Parameswaran’s latest Malayalam courtroom drama JSK – Janaki vs State of Kerala was set to release on June 27, 2025. However, the film’s release has now been stalled after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) refused to grant it clearance.
At the heart of the issue is Anupama’s character, who plays a sexual assault survivor named Janaki – a name traditionally associated with Goddess Sita. The CBFC reportedly found this problematic, citing the use of a revered name in a sensitive narrative. As a result, the board has demanded both a change in the film’s title and the character’s name before considering approval.
This decision has led to a delay in the film’s release, sparking debate around artistic freedom and creative expression.
The film features Union Minister and actor Suresh Gopi in a key role as the lawyer defending Janaki. The ensemble cast also includes Shruti Ramachandran, Divya Pillai, Askar Ali, Baiju Santhosh, Kottayam Ramesh, and Shoby Thilkan. Directed by J. Phanindra Kumar and Sethuraman Nair Kankol, the film’s music is composed by Ghibran.
With the release now uncertain, all eyes are on the makers and the CBFC to see how the matter is resolved. Stay tuned for further updates.