The postponement of the highly anticipated film Jana Nayagan, widely believed to be superstar Thalapathy Vijay's final big-screen appearance, has sent waves of disappointment through his massive fanbase and the film industry. Amidst this emotional backdrop, actress Malavika Mohanan, who co-starred with Vijay in the blockbuster Master, has opened up about the profound impact of his cinematic presence and the unique atmosphere his films generate.
A Festival Like No Other: The Vijay Phenomenon
In an exclusive interview with India Today, Malavika Mohanan echoed the sentiments of countless fans, expressing a deep sense of personal and collective loss. "Like all his other fans, I'll miss him on the big screen," she confessed. "Every time one of his films is released, it feels like a festival." She went on to describe the unparalleled excitement that grips Tamil Nadu ahead of a Vijay release, a phenomenon she believes is deeply rooted in the region's culture.
"There's so much electricity and euphoria in the air leading up to the release. You really have to be in Chennai, in Tamil Nadu, to experience that," Malavika emphasized. "Very few actors can create that kind of atmosphere when their films are coming out." This statement underscores the localized, yet massive, stardom that Vijay commands, making his releases cultural events beyond mere movie premieres.
Grounded Superstardom: Memories from the 'Master' Set
Recalling her experience working alongside the megastar in Master, Malavika Mohanan highlighted Vijay's down-to-earth and empathetic nature, which belies his colossal fame. "It was lovely working with him on Master. You don't feel like you're working with one of the biggest superstars," she shared. "He's very sweet, very humble, and an excellent listener."
She further elaborated on his attentive personality, noting that "He genuinely wants to know about you. He listens, observes people, and has a very sharp sense of understanding." This insight from a co-star paints a picture of a star who remains connected and respectful to everyone on set, a quality that has undoubtedly endeared him to colleagues and fans alike.
The 'Jana Nayagan' Delay: Causes and Current Status
The film at the center of this emotional storm, Jana Nayagan, directed by H Vinoth, was originally scheduled for a worldwide release on January 9. The makers announced the postponement with a heavy heart, citing "unavoidable circumstances beyond our control." In a statement, they acknowledged the audience's anticipation and assured that the new release date would be announced soon.
The primary reason for the delay stemmed from issues with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The board had sought certain cuts and dialogue muting in the film. Although the required changes were reportedly made, the certification was not issued in time for the planned release. This led the film's producers to approach the Madras High Court, which has now reserved its order on the matter, effectively putting the release on hold indefinitely.
On a separate note, Malavika Mohanan is gearing up for her own major release. She will next be seen in The Raja Saab, starring Prabhas, which is slated for its own release on January 9.
