Celebrations break out in Tamil Nadu to welcome 'Jana Nayagan'

Chennai, Jul 22 (PTI) Celebrations broke out on Wednesday evening in Tamil Nadu to welcome the theatrical release of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay starrer ‘Jana Nayagan’ on July 23, with special dance shows blazing with the brightest colours from a professional lighting system.

In theatres, including Woodlands and Casino here, special cultural performances marked the arrival of the much-awaited film and laser beams shot into the night sky to hail Vijay while fans danced to peppy tunes.

Huge hoardings showing Vijay delivering raw power in style formed the background and such bill boards — known locally as cutouts — attracted special attention as fans danced and whistled before watching the “first day, first show” of their loved movie on Thursday

morning.

Transport Minister Vijay Tamilan Parthiban said the Jana Nayagan release was a festival like Deepavali and Pongal.

He told reporters that he, too, has essayed a small role in the film, and it was his golden time.

TVK legislator KV Vijaydhamu said: “Tomorrow I will forget that I am an MLA and will enjoy the cinema as a fan.” Across the state, fans are taking several initiatives to make the film a memorable thing, the MLA said, adding that helmets would be given to about 100 people in Chennai as a souvenir in the presence of TVK leader and Minister N Anand.

Fans and TVK cadres, who thronged cinemas, said they wanted to have an “early feel” of the ambience as huge banners hailed the “farewell” movie of their loved actor.

Many fans said they are excited about the film’s release after a long delay. However, they are also sad as Jana Nayagan will be Vijay’s last film.

In several cinemas, on the foreground area, sound systems and special lights were put in place to facilitate fun and merriment to welcome the movie.

Rohini SilverScreens, Woodlands and Casino were among the cinemas where imposing Jana Nayagan hoardings could be spotted.

A hoarding in Chennai hailed Vijay as “the one and only power centre” of Tamil Nadu.

Also, wall-posters sprung up across the state praising the “glory” of Vijay as many of his fans and supporters visited popular temples to offer prayers for the grand success of the movie.

Alongside celebrations, allegations of inflated cost of tickets surfaced and a video clip of arguments was circulated on social media over “rise” in ticket rates.

A film distributor said the Puducherry government has allowed a special morning show at 7 AM.

Industry sources said fans had big plans to celebrate the opening day with “milk abishekam” to Vijay’s hoardings, “Annadhanam,” and display of fireworks as well.

Director of Kamala Cinemas, Vishnu Kamal, said Jana Nayagan was not merely a film but a festival.

In a social media post, Kamal said that for the first time in history, the 25th day (August 16) celebration show of Jana Nayagan is “Housefull” within just 5 minutes.

“This is beyond records. This is pure madness. This is magical. It’s only possible because of one name- CM Thalapathy Vijay Anna.” Another noted theatre in the city, Kasi said, “all set for the massive moment.” PTI VGN VGN KH