Latest news with #Janaki
Time of India
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Geetha LLB: Neethu Maya and Gaurav Gupta's heartfelt story of justice and family
Geetha LLB is one of those serials that quietly grew on people. It tells the story of a middle-class girl, Geetha , who studies law and steps into the court to fight for justice: not just for others, but also for herself. The show talks about her everyday struggles, the people she meets, and how she tries to balance family relationships while standing up for what's right. Her story feels close to home for many, especially because she talks and reacts just like someone we all know. Geetha's journey is not just about law and courtrooms. It's also about emotions, trust, and the bonds she tries to hold on to. Even when things don't go her way, she doesn't give up. She's someone who remembers film dialogues and connects them to real-life situations. She is a woman with clarity, a strong mind and a good heart. In the latest episode, things took an emotional turn. Maharadhi warns Jagruthi to send Janaki out of the house, or he'll make her pay. The family starts to insult Janaki, asking who she even is, but Janaki stays strong. Akhil stands by her and promises that he'll help her find the son she's been waiting for all these years. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Jagruthi, who realises it was her mistake that kept Janaki away from her son, begs her to leave the house for now, promising to help her find him. Meanwhile, Akhil comes across some details that strangely match his own life, raising doubts if he could actually be Janaki's missing son. The serial stars Neethu Maya as Geetha, while Gaurav Gupta plays Akhil, silver screen actress Rajeshree plays the emotional role of Janaki. Kannada actress Anushree HV, portrays Jagruthi. All the actors have received good appreciation for their performances. Geetha LLB airs Monday to Friday at 9:30 PM on Star Maa. If you enjoy stories that are emotional, inspiring, and close to real life, this serial might just be the one to follow.
News18
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
CBFC Revises Stand On Suresh Gopi's Janaki Vs State Of Kerala, Now Orders Just Two Cuts
Last Updated: The CBFC initially recommended 96 cuts for the film 'Janaki Vs State of Kerala' but later agreed to certify it with just two minor cuts after a Kerala High Court hearing. Posters of the film. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has now agreed to clear the film Janaki Vs State of Kerala with only two minor cuts, down from the 96 it originally recommended. The move came during a Kerala High Court hearing on July 9, 2025, where the board's counsel informed the court of its revised approach to the controversial film starring actor-politician Suresh Gopi and actress Anupama Parameswaran. The film had previously faced opposition from the Mumbai office of the CBFC over the use of the protagonist's name, 'Janaki', a name associated with the Hindu goddess Sita, in a narrative that includes sexual assault. The board considered the name inappropriate for the context and had cited concerns about the potential for religious discord. 'In the subject film, when the lead character, who is named after Goddess Sita/Janaki, is raped, she is then aided by a man belonging to one particular religious community and is cross-examined and asked harrowing questions by a person belonging to another religious community. This religious dichotomy in the treatment of a character bearing Goddess Sita's sacred name has the potential to inflame communal tensions and create divisive narratives between religious groups," the CBFC stated in an affidavit submitted to the court. The affidavit also warned that permitting such portrayals could encourage similar scenes in future films. As a compromise, the board has now allowed the title to be retained with slight modifications – either Janaki V Vs State of Kerala or V Janaki Vs State of Kerala, reflecting the protagonist's full name, Janaki Vidhyadharan. Additionally, the CBFC has suggested muting the protagonist's name in a particular cross-examination scene. The Kerala division of the CBFC had previously cleared the film without objections, but the Mumbai office's concerns brought the issue to court, highlighting inconsistencies in certification across regions. The Kerala High Court, led by Justice N. Nagaresh, had earlier screened the film on July 5 and has now adjourned the matter to 1:45 pm today to allow the filmmakers time to respond to the proposed changes. Originally slated for release on June 20, the film's release has been delayed due to the certification dispute. The filmmakers have previously criticised the CBFC's initial demands as 'arbitrary" and 'unwarranted." Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Suresh Gopi's Film Janaki V/s State Of Kerala Renamed After CBFC Row, Sets July Release
Janaki V vs State of Kerala faced a legal issue due to the use of Janaki in the title, delaying its release. After much controversy, the makers have now secured a release date. After facing a series of delays and a legal battle surrounding its title, Suresh Gopi's Malayalam legal drama has finally locked a release date. Originally scheduled for release on June 27, 2025, the film was denied certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) due to concerns over its title, Janaki V vs State of Kerala. The CBFC raised objections, citing that the name, Janaki, a direct reference to the Ramayana character Sita could lead to public sentiment issues. Following discussions with the CBFC and a court petition, the filmmakers have now made necessary modifications. The film retains its original title but with a stylised change to Janaki V v/s State of Kerala. It has now received a UA certificate with a 16+ age recommendation. Janki is set to release worldwide on July 17, 2025. Confirming the news, the official Instagram handle of the film shared a new poster along with a caption that read, 'Behind every delay… have a truth worth fighting for. And in the end, that truth shall always prevail!!! JANAKI V v/s STATE OF KERALA U/A 16+ CERTIFICATION WORLD WIDE RELEASE ON JULY 17TH." Take a look: View this post on Instagram A post shared by JANAKI V/S STATE OF KERALA (@jskthemovie) The CBFC had earlier told the Kerala High Court that the film would only be cleared if its title was changed to either Janaki V v/s State of Kerala or V Janaki v/s State of Kerala. Additionally, the board reportedly asked for the muting of the word 'Janaki" during a courtroom scene to avoid potential controversy. Producer Suresh Kumar also shared his views on the delay. He attributed the heightened caution of the CBFC to events surrounding another high-profile Malayalam film. 'Empuraan had to be recensored due to the controversy. That's when the censor board became more cautious. That's why this problem has arisen; everything began from there," he stated. Meanwhile, in the latest update, the Central Board of Film Certification had earlier agreed to clear the film Janaki Vs State of Kerala with only two minor cuts, down from the 96 it originally recommended. The move came during a Kerala High Court hearing on July 9, 2025, where the board's counsel informed the court of its revised approach to the controversial film starring actor-politician Suresh Gopi and actress Anupama Parameswaran. 'In the subject film, when the lead character, who is named after Goddess Sita/Janaki, is raped, she is then aided by a man belonging to one particular religious community and is cross-examined and asked harrowing questions by a person belonging to another religious community. This religious dichotomy in the treatment of a character bearing Goddess Sita's sacred name has the potential to inflame communal tensions and create divisive narratives between religious groups," the CBFC stated in an affidavit submitted to the court. As a compromise, the board has now allowed the title to be retained with slight modifications – either Janaki V Vs State of Kerala or V Janaki Vs State of Kerala, reflecting the protagonist's full name, Janaki Vidhyadharan. Additionally, the CBFC has suggested muting the protagonist's name in a particular cross-examination scene. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Janaki V v/s State of Kerala' row: Suresh Gopi calls for focus on message, not controversy - 'let Janaki speak'
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) On the day of 'Janaki V v/s State of Kerala's release, veteran actor Suresh Gopi made an impassioned appeal to let the voice of the film be highlighted beyond any noise of controversy. As reported by Mathrubhumi, breaking his silence for the first time on the censorship row that dogged the film, Suresh Gopi urged viewers to look past the headlines and absorb the social message at its heart. Not just a film, but a statement Speaking to reporters after attending the premiere at Ragam Theatre in Thrissur, Gopi said, "JSK is being widely accepted. The film itself is free of controversy and highlights a relevant, pressing issue. Efforts to sensationalize it should not distract from the powerful message it conveys." 02:26 Janaki V vs State Of Kerala - Official Trailer He emphasized that JSK should be seen as more than entertainment — it's a mirror held up to society's treatment of women. 'Let Janaki's voice be the voice of all women. Let it reflect the realities we often ignore. Laws are not enough; their proper implementation is key,' Suresh Gopi added. From censorship to courtroom drama The film, directed by Pravin Narayanan, stars Anupama Parameswaran in the titular role of Janaki, a woman who takes on the system. However, even before release, the film faced hurdles. The CBFC objected to the use of the full name "Janaki" in the title, prompting the makers to approach the High Court. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Eventually, the film was cleared under the modified title 'Janaki V v/s State of Kerala', with only the initial used to denote the protagonist. Movie hits the big screens Meanwhile, 'JSK' has finally hit the big screens and according to the Sacnilk website, the Suresh Gopi starrer mints Rs 1 crore on day 1. ETimes review for the film reads, "The movie suffers from an uneven screenplay that struggles to hold its narrative together. The plot jumps between subplots without building real momentum, and some characters like Vincy Aloshious's Nimisha feel underwritten. The pacing is inconsistent, and the film often wavers between genres without clear focus. While the premise is promising, the writing lacks the sharpness needed to fully explore its emotional and thematic potential."
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Janaki V vs State of Kerala movie review: This Suresh Gopi-starrer suffers from ‘superstar syndrome'
Janaki V vs State of Kerala movie review: In one of the most pivotal moments in Janaki V vs State of Kerala (JSK), as Janaki (Anupama Parameswaran) delivers her statement in court, and her advocate Niveditha Abel (Shruti Ramachandran) presents her final arguments, the narrative unexpectedly shifts focus to advocate David Abel Donovan (Suresh Gopi), despite his minimal role in this phase of the hearing. At this point, it is Janaki and Niveditha who are (supposed to be) at the centre. Yet, the film suddenly pivots to David, allowing him to deliver a long speech about women's issues, the court being a beacon of hope and the need for justice for the wronged. Interestingly, JSK is one of those rare films about a sexual assault survivor's pursuit of justice that doesn't fall prey to a saviour complex. Unfortunately, it does suffer from 'superstar syndrome', where David is granted undue importance, screen time and heroic monologues not because the narrative demands it, but simply because the role is played by a star like Suresh Gopi. At its core, JSK is about Janaki's fight for Janaki. As the title makes abundantly clear, it's Janaki v/s State of Kerala; no one else is fighting on her behalf, not even David. Yet, almost forcefully and often out of tune with the narrative, he is given moments to deliver lengthy, dramatic speeches reminiscent of old Suresh Gopi films. Nonetheless, this tendency is, unfortunately, just one of several shortcomings in the film, written and directed by Pravin Narayanan. Following a fateful night when she was chloroformed, sedated and sexually assaulted, Janaki Vidhyadharan embarks on a legal battle to get justice. Although the police pick up two suspects and recover some evidence from their possession, the chargesheet remains weak, as officials are unable to find some key details. What adds to this is that Janaki never saw the face of the culprit(s). Meanwhile, Janaki loses her father, who brought her up as a single parent, giving her all the love and care in the world. In court, David Abel, a firebrand lawyer known for defending the innocent and downtrodden, represents the accused and successfully proves their innocence. This leaves Janaki in the dark, made worse by the fact that she is pregnant as a result of the rape. However, with the support of some well-intentioned people, such as her friend Naveen (Madhav Suresh), his sister Saira (Divya Pillai), CPO Firoz (Askar Ali), and others, Janaki decides to continue her fight. Well aware that Janaki was wronged and deserves justice, David also begins to help her silently. But the case is deeply complicated, with no clue yet as to who the real perpetrator(s) is. The remainder of the film follows Janaki's battle, inside and outside the courtroom, to uncover the truth and prove her case. In many ways, JSK comes across as a poorly executed amalgamation of director Jeethu Joseph's Mohanlal-starrer Neru (2023) and Shaji Kailas' Chinthamani Kolacase (2006), featuring Suresh Gopi himself in the lead role. While JSK bears clear similarities to both films, what it lacks is a tightly written script that doesn't meander aimlessly before reaching key plot points. One of the major shortcomings of Pravin's screenplay lies in the way the parallel investigation by Janaki, her allies and David unfolds. Though this aspect had the potential to keep viewers engaged with gradual revelations and mounting suspense, the way the discoveries are made and what is actually uncovered feels too convenient. It even makes one question whether the case was truly as complex as initially presented. JSK, much like Chinthamani Kolacase, does suggest that the failure lies with the investigating officer's incompetence. However, while the Shaji Kailas film, its problematic aspects aside, crafted the investigation like a puzzle that both characters and viewers could figure out together, JSK simply lets things happen. Revelations fall into place without much buildup, and courtroom scenes follow suit with minimal dramatic weight. Adding to the film's struggles is its weak character development. Unlike Neru and Chinthamani Kolacase, where emotional bonds (like those between Sara Mohammed and her parents, and Veeramani Warrier and his daughter Chinthamani, respectively) were established early and effectively, JSK never gives us a meaningful understanding of its characters and their relationships. We're told that Janaki was close with her father, but their relationship is rarely explored, making it difficult to feel the emotional weight she feels over his loss. Apart from a few outbursts and the numbed-by-pain expression Anupama carries throughout, the writing fails to convey the depth of her trauma. Similarly, while the film says that Naveen knew Janaki from before, it never clarifies how or why, leaving his unwavering commitment to her justice arc feeling inserted for the sake of it. Had Pravin invested more in building the dynamics between various characters, JSK might have built a stronger emotional connection with the audience. From the very beginning, JSK gives Suresh Gopi, who also serves as a BJP MP and MoS, ample opportunities to deliver commentary on incidents that closely mirror real-life events, particularly the ones in which the Kerala government has faced public heat. From David taking on a case against a prelate whose name and alleged crimes bear a striking resemblance to those of infamous Bishop Franco Mulakkal, to a cooperative bank scam, and even his criticism of the media — warning them, 'Don't scratch me, I will scrape' — the film gives Suresh Gopi several moments to boost his political image. However, considering that he was silent during the JSK controversy, these scenes elicit more chuckles than introspection. Where Pravin's script shines is in its sensitive handling of abortion rights, particularly in cases involving pregnancies resulting from rape. The film addresses this without filtering it through a masculine or societal lens. Amid the narrative shortcomings, what works in JSK's favour is Pravin's stylistic and emotionally resonant direction. He also deserves praise for refraining from graphically depicting the assault, something which many male filmmakers still fail to understand. Although the film treats Suresh Gopi like a 'superstar', he is unable to elevate key moments beyond a certain point, mainly due to the artificiality of his dialogue delivery. While his presence does lend weight to several scenes, his poorly styled beard makes him appear somewhat caricatured. Anupama Parameswaran gives a good performance as Janaki, though her dialogue delivery occasionally feels manufactured. She is at her best in Janaki's most vulnerable moments, which deserved more thoughtful execution. While her loud outburst felt like a powerful artistic choice the first time, its repeated use weakens the emotional impact. Madhav Suresh here delivers one of the worst performances by a Malayalam actor in recent times. His blank expressions undercut many scenes of emotional tension, and even in shots where he's merely present, his body language feels out of sync with the rest of the film. Although Gireesh Narayanan has attempted to bring unique tracks to JSK, they fall flat, with none of the songs blending seamlessly into the narrative. Meanwhile, Ghibran's background score is serviceable at best. Renadive's cinematography, on the other hand, effectively captures the essence of the film and remains one of its technical strengths. Janaki V vs State of Kerala movie cast: Suresh Gopi, Anupama Parameswaran, Shruthi Ramachandran, Divya Pillai, Askar Ali, Baiju Santhosh, Madhav Suresh Janaki V vs State of Kerala movie director: Pravin Narayanan Janaki V vs State of Kerala movie rating: 2.5 stars Anandu Suresh is a Senior sub-editor at Indian Express Online. He specialises in Malayalam cinema, but doesn't limit himself to it and explores various aspects of the art form. He also pens a column titled Cinema Anatomy, where he delves extensively into the diverse layers and dimensions of cinema, aiming to uncover deeper meanings and foster continuous discourse. Anandu previously worked with The New Indian Express' news desk in Hyderabad, Telangana. You can follow him on Twitter @anandu_suresh_ and write (or send movie recommendations) to him at ... Read More
