Vijay’s Jana Nayagan: H Vinoth says ‘audience need not worry’ if film is Bhagvanth Kesari remake

Vijay in Jana Nayagan song 'Thalapathy Kacheri'.

There has been considerable buzz around ‘Thalapathy’ Vijay’s upcoming film Jana Nayagan—not merely because it stars Vijay, but because it is his final film before he fully transitions into politics. Vijay had earlier said the decision to step away from cinema was driven by his commitment to his fans. At the film’s grand audio launch event in Malaysia, an emotional Vijay told the audience, “I am giving up cinema for the fans who gave up everything for me.”

With just a week left for the film’s release, director H Vinoth has now opened up about Jana Nayagan, addressing speculation around the project—particularly rumours suggesting that the film is a remake of the 2023 Telugu blockbuster Bhagavanth Kesari.

In an interview with Cinema Vikatan, Vinoth revealed that the film was shot over a 100-day schedule, during which Vijay was on set for 84 days. Reflecting on the experience, the filmmaker said, “It was like watching 84 Vijay films.”

Praising the star further, 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 project came together, H Vinoth shared that the idea for Jana Nayagan 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,” he recalled, adding, “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.”

Teasing the film’s title, Vinoth said with a laugh, “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.”

Addressing ongoing speculation about Jana Nayagan being a remake of Nandamuri Balakrishna-starrer Bhagavanth Kesari, Vinoth urged audiences not to be concerned. “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.”

Vijay will be playing the role of a police officer in Jana Nayagan, which is set to hit screens on January 9.