Why can't a heroine in a film fighting for justice be named Janaki?
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court has challenged the CBFC's objection to the use of the name 'Janaki' in a film starring Suresh Gopi. This case raises important questions around artistic freedom and the implications of censorship. As the court defends the protagonist's right to her name, the film industry rallies against perceived overreach.
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala High Court supports artistic freedom in filmmaking.
- The CBFC's objections raise questions about censorship.
- Janaki's character embodies resilience and justice.
- The film industry is unified in protest against the CBFC's decision.
- Religious names in India often have significant cultural relevance.
Kochi, June 30 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court, for the second time this week, has challenged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) regarding its disapproval of the name 'Janaki' in a film featuring Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi.
Highlighting that the lead character, named Janaki, is a survivor of sexual assault pursuing justice in a court of law, the High Court emphasized, “She is not a rapist. If a rapist is named as Rama, Krishna, or Janaki, then I can understand. At least we can appreciate that you should not name that character with God's name. Here, she is a heroine of the film, fighting for the cause of justice.”
Last Wednesday (June 25), the film production company Cosmos Entertainments approached the Kerala High Court, claiming unreasonable delays by the CBFC in issuing the censor certificate for Gopi’s film.
Originally set for release on June 27, the film has been stalled due to the CBFC's objection to the title 'Janaki'. On Monday, the Deputy Solicitor General, representing the CBFC, argued that the current title contravenes guidelines established by the Central government under Section 5B(2) of the Cinematograph Act.
However, the court found this argument to be prima facie untenable, noting that in India, most names have religious significance across various faiths, including Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam.
“80 percent of names have religious connotations, like Ahammed, Anthony, Kesavan, Krishnan... You (CBFC) cannot dictate to directors and artists what names they can use or what stories they can tell. That is the freedom of an artist. You cannot interfere with that. While it is not absolute, you lack a convincing reason to claim that the name Janaki would be disrespectful to any racial, religious, or other groups,” the court stated.
The court has scheduled the case for Wednesday, directing the DSG to provide a detailed explanation for why the name 'Janaki' cannot be included in the film.
Meanwhile, on Monday, representatives from various Malayalam film organizations, including FEFKA, AMMA, and ATMA (representing the television industry), protested outside the CBFC regional office in the state capital.
Renowned director Shaji Kailas, known for his significant contributions to cinema, expressed surprise at the unnecessary controversies being stirred.
“If this is the issue with a name, then my name should also be changed. I truly fail to comprehend what the problem is with the CBFC,” stated Kailas.
Producer Renjith, known for the blockbuster film Thudarum, currently enjoying commercial success, remarked: “It’s not only those involved in the film industry who should protest; the public should also unite against this overreach.”
Jayan Cherthala, Vice President of the adhoc committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes, warned that permitting this unreasonable behavior would lead to endless interference.
“No one should forget that the poster and teaser of this film have already been approved and released for some time. This is wholly unacceptable,” Cherthala asserted.
Point of View
I stand with the nation's commitment to uphold artistic freedom while recognizing the need for responsible storytelling. The Kerala High Court's intervention signifies a pivotal moment for filmmakers, urging regulatory bodies to reconsider their stance on creative expression.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Kerala High Court's ruling regarding the name 'Janaki'?
The Kerala High Court questioned the CBFC's objection to the name 'Janaki', emphasizing the protagonist's role as a victim seeking justice and stating that the name should not be deemed offensive.
Why did the CBFC object to the name 'Janaki'?
The CBFC argued that the name 'Janaki' violated guidelines set by the Central government, suggesting it could be considered contentious.
What is the significance of the name 'Janaki' in the context of the film?
In the film, 'Janaki' symbolizes a heroine fighting for justice after being a victim of sexual assault, portraying resilience and empowerment.
What was the reaction from the film industry to the CBFC's stance?
The film industry, including various associations, protested against the CBFC's decision, viewing it as an infringement on creative liberties.
What are the implications of this case for artistic freedom in India?
This case could set a precedent for how censorship is applied to film narratives, potentially impacting future creative expressions and the rights of filmmakers.
