Jana Nayagan director reveals why Vijay didn't react to leak: 'It may have led to criticism'

H Vinoth and Thalapathy Vijay (Pic/Instagram)

Ahead of Jana Nayagan's theatrical release, director H. Vinoth has addressed the controversy surrounding the film's leak and Vijay's silence on the issue. Explaining why the actor chose not to appeal to fans against watching the leaked version, Vinoth said such a statement could have invited unnecessary political criticism. He also dismissed allegations that the leak was politically motivated.

H. Vinoth on Vijay's silence during Jana Nayagan leak

Speaking to reporters in Chennai during the film's final promotional event on Tuesday (July 21), Vinoth was asked why Vijay never urged fans to avoid watching the leaked version. He explained, "Had Vijay given an appeal, it may have been said that there are so many problems in the country, including the farmers' issue. When he did not make an appeal on such matters, why was he doing it now? That could have become the criticism."

Vinoth added that the leak was a legal matter and was handled by the authorities. "I think Vijay sir did not involve himself because it may have deviated the matter and led to criticism," he said.

The director also rejected allegations that the leak had been orchestrated for political benefit. "A film made on a budget of around Rs 400 crore cannot be leaked just like that. Even if such a conspiracy had existed, the authorities would have uncovered it within a matter of hours or days," he said.

"He was not the Chief Minister then. These allegations are being made only for political mileage," Vinoth added.

Opening up about the film's delayed release, Vinoth admitted that the seven-month wait had been emotionally exhausting for everyone involved. "There is a sense of relief, like we have finally reached the end of a problem. And we believe we will get justice for it from the public," he said.

More about Jana Nayagan

After a seven-month delay, Jana Nayagan will release in theatres worldwide on July 23, 2026. The film faced several hurdles before receiving an A certificate after 12 modifications. Earlier, it was delayed due to certification. In April, the film's HD version was leaked online, and a freelance editor working on the film was arrested along with several others.

Jana Nayagan marks Vijay's final film before he transitions into full-time politics. Directed by H. Vinoth, the political drama also stars Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Narain.