Kerala High Court Raps Censor Board Over Film Row, Board Claims Name Hurts Sentiments

27th June 2025 at 5:53 PM

1 minute read

New Delhi : The Kerala High Court on Friday questioned the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over its objection to the use of the name Janaki in the Malayalam film JSK – Janaki vs State of Kerala, starring Union Minister and BJP leader Suresh Gopi and actor Anupama Parameswaran.

We have a film named Seeta Aur Geeta. Janaki is Seeta. Nothing happened. No problem. Nobody has any complaint. We have a film named Ram Lakhan. Nobody has any complaint. Then how come for Janaki there is a complaint ? the judge asked the Deputy Solicitor General (DSGI) representing the CBFC.

The court’s remarks came after the CBFC issued a show cause notice to the filmmakers, directing them to drop the name ‘Janaki’ from the film’s title and dialogues. The CBFC argued that the use of the name ‘Janaki’, a name associated with Goddess Sita, in a film with such content could violate guideline 2 (xi) under Section 5B(2) of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, which prohibits visuals or words contemptuous of racial, religious, or other groups,

The production’s counsel argued that, as per the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983, the Revising Committee cannot issue a show cause notice. Its role is limited to suggesting cuts and granting certificates. Directing that the show cause notice be placed before the court on June 30, the judge told the filmmakers they are free to either respond to the notice or file an appeal.

The production house said it submitted the film for certification on June 12 and completed screening on June 18. They claim that the delay, coupled with the sudden objection over the name, is causing financial losses and violates their constitutional rights under Article 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech) and 19(1)(g) (right to practice any profession).