Film Fraternity Protests Censorship Over 'Janaki vs The State of Kerala'

The Kerala film industry has rallied against the Central Board of Film Certification's demand to rename the film, 'Janaki vs The State of Kerala,' starring Suresh Gopi. The protest occurred in front of the CBFC's regional office, with producers, directors, actors, and technicians in attendance.

Industry leaders assert that the directive to change the title infringes on freedom of expression, equating to religious censorship. B Unnikrishnan, a prominent director and producer, emphasized that while the title decision lies with producers, the larger issue at hand is censorship and creative rights violations.

Key figures, including CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam, joined the protest, highlighting concerns over stifling creative expression. The film, directed by Pravin Narayanan and featuring Anupama Parameswaran, faces challenges as its storyline involves a legal battle against a state, which reportedly led to the refusal of screening clearance due to its use of the name 'Janaki.'

(With inputs from agencies.)