Thalapathy Vijay’s Jana Nayagan, one of the most anticipated films of 2026 and widely regarded as the actor’s farewell project, was initially scheduled to have a special 4 am premiere in Kerala. However, the early-morning screening has now been cancelled due to last-minute complications.
The decision was officially confirmed by SSR Entertainments, which acquired the film’s distribution rights for Kerala at a premium price. Following the cancellation, all southern states—except Tamil Nadu—will now adhere to revised screening times and refrain from early-morning shows.
As per the updated schedule, Jana Nayagan will premiere at 6 am in Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. In Tamil Nadu, the first shows will begin later, at 9 am, on January 9.
According to the production house, the change in timing was unavoidable, as permission for the 4 am screening could not be secured due to concerns arising in Tamil Nadu. In an official statement, SSR Entertainments said:
“We made every possible effort to conduct the first show of Jana Nayagan in Kerala at 4 am. Initially, permission for the early show was granted from the producer’s side. However, due to the prevailing situation and certain issues emerging in Tamil Nadu, approval for the 4 am show could not be obtained.”
The announcement comes after days of heightened excitement among fans in Kerala, many of whom were preparing for early-morning celebrations. Acknowledging the disappointment, the production team issued an apology to fans for the cancellation of the early screenings.
Despite the setback, anticipation for Jana Nayagan remains strong across southern India as audiences await the theatrical release of Vijay’s landmark film.
