‘Jana Nayagan’ censor update, slipper thrown at lyricist Vairamuthu, Mammootty–Adoor Gopalakrishnan reunion: Top 5 South newsmakers of the day

January 23 turned out to be a packed day for South cinema, marked by major announcements, star power, controversy, and celebrations. From a crucial court update to a legendary filmmaker–actor reunion and viral public incidents, today’s headlines gave fans plenty to talk about.

Madras HC to decide Jana Nayagan’s fate on January 27

The Madras High Court has reserved its verdict on the censor controversy surrounding the much-awaited Vijay-starrer Jana Nayagan. As reported by The Hindu, the Division Bench will pronounce its decision on January 27 after extensive hearings involving the CBFC and the film’s producers.




The Supreme Court has also urged the High Court to expedite the matter, making the January 27 order crucial in determining whether the film will clear the censor process.

Mammootty and Adoor Gopalakrishnan reunite after 32 years

Veteran actor Mammootty and legendary filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan are collaborating again after 32 years for their upcoming film titled Padayaatra. The title was unveiled during a puja ceremony held on January 23.

The film stars Mammootty alongside Indrans, Grace Anthony, Sreeshma Chandran, and Zeenath AP. Mammootty was last seen in the thriller 'Kalamkaval'.

Slipper thrown at lyricist Vairamuthu during public event

Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu was targeted with a slipper during a public function in Tirupur held for the inauguration of the Kongu Arts, Literature, and Cultural Federation. The slipper reportedly missed him and landed within the crowd.

According to police, the slipper was allegedly hurled by a woman named Jaya, who has been diagnosed with mental illness and has previously been involved in protests against state authorities. The matter is currently under investigation, and the woman is being questioned. The incident has sparked widespread reactions on social media.

Prakash Raj and Bhavana Menon meet astronaut Sunita Williams

Actor Prakash Raj recently met NASA astronaut Sunita Williams at the Kerala Literature Festival in Kozhikode. He shared photos from the meeting on X, calling it a moment to cherish, and described Sunita as the true “shakti” of the present era.

Actor Bhavana Menon also met Sunita Williams and posted about the experience on Instagram, calling it a “life-changing moment” and sharing an iconic handshake picture. Fans were thrilled to see the celebrities together and flooded the comments section.

Sunita Williams, who resigned from NASA in December 2025, also delivered an address at the festival. She went on to inaugurate the four-day literary event the following day, marking a memorable moment for attendees.

Adhik Ravichandran teases big surprises for 'AK 64'

During the celebrations marking the re-release of Mankatha, director Adhik Ravichandran shared an update on Ajith Kumar’s upcoming 64th film, AK 64. He revealed that the film will feature unexpected scenes and is being designed as a family entertainer.

Adhik also hinted that the cast and music composer will be announced as a surprise, further raising anticipation. With filming scheduled to begin in February, excitement among Ajith fans continues to build.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”