H Vinoth addresses rumours of Jana Nayagan being Bhagavanth Kesari remake: 'For now, can't say yes for no'

Jana Nayagan poster

Thalapathy Vijay's final film Jana Nayagan is just a week away from release. Ahead of the grand release, director H Vinoth has opened up about the film and addressed speculations about it being a remake of the 2023 Telugu blockbuster Bhagavanth Kesari.

H Vinoth on filming with Vijay

In an interview with Cinema Vikatan, Vinoth revealed that the film was shot in 100 days, out of which Vijay was on set for 84 days.

Praising the actor, Vinoth said, "He is a complete star actor. Beyond that, he is a true director. He knows more than a director should know about lighting, lenses, and shot sequencing. Along with the joy of working with a mass hero, I also have the satisfaction of working with someone who understands every aspect of direction. That's why I say that every day we shot with him felt like watching a new film."

Speaking about how the film came about, the director said it emerged during discussions with producer Sudhan of Passion Studios and his friend Santosh. "They told me they were looking for a story for Vijay sir's last film. I immediately called Vijay sir's manager, Jagadish, and asked if they were indeed seeking a script. He said yes. I then met Vijay sir, narrated the story, and Jana Nayagan took shape. He liked the story very much."

Joking about the mystery behind the title, Vinoth said, "You will understand the reason for the title only after watching the film. If you want more details about the story, give me Rs 500 crore and I'll tell you."

Is Jana Nayagan a remake?

H Vinoth also addressed the rumours of Jana Nayagan being a remake of Balakrishna Nandamuri's Bhagavanth Kesari and said audiences need not worry. "I'll repeat what I said at the music launch. Whether this story is a remake of Bhagavanth Kesari, or whether a few scenes were adapted, or even if just one scene was inspired by it, whatever it is, audiences need not worry about that," he said.

The director added, "This is a Thalapathy Vijay film. Some people might think, ‘I have already seen the original, why should I watch this?' Others may even get upset. To them, I say, just watch one show. You'll have your answer. Teasers, trailers, and songs will keep coming, and you'll understand more. For now, I can't say yes, and I can't say no either."