'Jana Nayagan' Director, H Vinoth Reveals If Vijay's Film Is Remake Of Balayya's 'Bhagavanth Kesari'

Jana Nayagan is currently at the center of massive buzz as it is the final film of Tamil superstar, Thalapathy Vijay before he retires from acting. The actor decided to pursue a full-time political career with the party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The official trailer for Jana Nayagan was released on January 3, 2026, and quickly gained popularity, reaching millions of real-time views within minutes of its release. Many fans claimed that the film is a remake of Balayya's Bhagavanth Kesari. Putting the speculations to rest, Jana Nayagan's director, H. Vinoth, issued a clarification statement.

Who do fans think Jana Nayagan is a remake of Bhagavanth Kesari?

Fans believe the upcoming film, Jana Nayagan, is a remake of the 2023 Telugu hit, Bhagavanth Kesari, based on several plot parallels, production rumours, and statements from those involved. Viewers have noted that both films feature nearly identical character dynamics and plot points. The most notable similarity is that both lead characters are former police officers, and both stories revolve around the hero acting as a protective guardian to a young woman. Additionally, both films contain a significant scene addressing good touch and bad touch for women, which the makers reportedly admitted was inspired by the original.

A focal point of Bhagavanth Kesari is the hero trying to enlist his ward (played by Sreeleela) into the army against her wishes. Fans spotted a similar training arc for Mamitha Baiju's character in the Jana Nayagan trailer, though it's unclear whether the scene is framed in the same context. Besides the similar scenes, reports have surfaced that the production house, KVN Productions, officially acquired remake rights from the original creators for approximately Rs. 4.5 crore. While some sources claim these rights were only for specific impactful scenes, such as those regarding child abuse and consent, the purchase itself fueled remake speculations.

Is Jana Nayagan actually a remake of Bhagavanth Kesari? What did H. Vinoth say?

While there has been significant speculation and online backlash suggesting that Jana Nayagan is a remake of the 2023 Telugu hit, Bhagavanth Kesari, director, H. Vinoth has dismissed the rumours, as reported by Deccan Chronicle. He acknowledged that many believed that Jana Nayagan was based on Bhagavanth Kesari; however, he asked them to verify the truth for themselves by watching the upcoming movie in theatres. H. Vinoth clarified that it was "a 100 percent Thalapathy film" and an absolute "commercial treat" to watch. His exact words were quoted as:

"Some people say this is a remake. Let me be very clear, this is a 100 percent Thalapathy film. It is a complete commercial treat in theatres."

VTV Ganesh's statements heightened the speculations around Bhagavanth Kesari's remake

In January 2025, an event was held for the film, Sankranthiki Vasthunam, and it was attended by VTV Ganesh and director, Anil Ravipudi. During the event, Ganesh shared an interesting anecdote about Thalapathy Vijay liking the film, Bhagavanth Kesari. According to Ganesh, Vijay was so impressed by the film, particularly its themes of women's empowerment, that he approached director Anil Ravipudi to helm a Tamil remake. Anil reportedly declined the remake offer, citing scheduling issues. This revelation heightened speculation that Jana Nayagan was a remake of Bhagavanth Kesari.

When will Jana Nayagan be released?

Jana Nayagan, directed by H. Vinoth, is scheduled for a global theatrical release on January 9, 2026. The movie features several prominent actresses in key roles, including Thalapathy Vijay and Pooja Hegde as the leads and Bobby Deol as the antagonist. Revathi essays the role of the protagonist's mother, and Mamitha Baiju, Shruti Haasan, Priyamani, and Reba Monica John reportedly play pivotal supporting roles.

Do you think Jana Nayagan is actually a remake of Bhagavanth Kesari? Let us know.

Also Read: Jana Nayagan Faces Backlash As Netizens Spot AI Logo In Film's Trailer, 'Such A Rookie Mistake..'

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