The delay of the upcoming film Jana Nayagan, starring Vijay, has caused a major dent in the theatre business across Kerala.According to K Vijaya Kumar, President of Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala, the delay arrived at the worst possible time. He stated in a press conference that the film was expected to revive theatres that had been suffering through a slow period. As reported by Kerala Trends Twitter page, “The Vijay film #JanaNayagan, which was expected to bring in massive collections, didn’t release. Several highly anticipated Malayalam films ended up as major flops with poor box office returns. This trend is likely to continue until March 19.”Vijaya Kumar explained the severity of the hit. “The Thalapathy Vijay film was anticipated to deliver strong collections and lift theatres out of a prolonged slump. But the sudden delay has seriously affected cinema centres across Kerala,” he said.
Theatre chains now looking toward mid-2026
With the postponement confirmed, Kerala’s exhibition sector faces a long pause before the next strong lineup.Reports say that April 2026 might bring new releases. But there is uncertainty about whether that slate can repair the ongoing damage. Theatre owners say the financial pressure is already visible. Many of them had prepared for the Vijay-led comeback wave.Instead, they are now forced to rely on smaller releases with unpredictable results.
Telugu states and Karnataka show similar condition
Reports indicate similar conditions in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, where expectations for the Vijay starrer were equally high.The film was promised to be the biggest South Indian release of the first quarter of 2026 and the distributors in these regions had made prior investments along with scheduling commitments based on an early-year release.Now, with the postponement stretching longer they are absorbing notable losses. Several trade sources describe the situation as “unexpected and financially draining.”
June 2026 becomes the target window
Multiple media reports, including those from NT News and Eenadu, suggest that the producers are now eyeing June 2026. The proposed date is June 18, positioned close to Vijay’s birthday on June 22.It aligns with festive weekends, early holiday turnout, and heightened fan activity around the actor’s birthday.Insiders also point out that internal discussions are ongoing. An official statement from the makers has not been issued yet.Sources say the team is exploring whether this date will offer both maximum footfall and marketing advantage.The popular YouTube channel Valai Pechu had earlier reported a significant delay. According to their update, the Jana Nayagan release would not happen anytime soon.They claimed the plan was to release the ‘Jana Nayagan’, directed by H Vinoth, on Thursday, June 18, 2026.The channel highlighted two strategic advantages. The date sits just ahead of Vijay’s 52nd birthday celebrations. It also aligns with the Muharram long weekend.
