Screenings of Thalapathy Vijay's final film, Jana Nayagan, were disrupted in parts of Karnataka after protesters opposed the release of Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu. Members of the pro-Kannada organisation Vijaya Sena staged demonstrations outside theatres and reportedly tore down posters of the film in Mandya. The protests are linked to the long-standing Cauvery water dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and intensified after the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) directed Karnataka to release water to the neighbouring state. Protesters Stop Jana Nayagan Screenings According to reports, members of Vijaya Sena gathered outside theatres screening Jana Nayagan, raising slogans against the CWRC's decision. The protesters also removed and damaged promotional posters of the film in Mandya. The demonstrators claimed that Karnataka should not release additional Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, especially when several parts of the state are facing water-related concerns. Cauvery Water Dispute Behind the Protest The protest was not directed at the film's content but was linked to the ongoing Cauvery water-sharing dispute. Several organisations in Karnataka have opposed the CWRC's latest order directing the state to release water to Tamil Nadu. The issue has remained a politically sensitive matter for decades, often leading to protests in both states whenever fresh water-sharing directives are issued. With Vijay now serving as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, the release of Jana Nayagan became a symbolic target for some protest groups. Vijay's Final Film Draws Attention Jana Nayagan marks Vijay's final film before his full-time political career. The movie has generated significant buzz among fans across India, making it one of the year's most anticipated Tamil releases. The protests in Karnataka have added another layer of attention to the film, though screenings reportedly continued in several locations under security arrangements. No Official Statement Yet Neither the makers of Jana Nayagan nor Vijay have issued an official statement regarding the protests. Authorities are monitoring the situation to ensure law and order while allowing theatres to operate safely. Further updates are expected as the Cauvery water issue continues to spark political and public debate.(ALSO READ) Jana Nayagan Box Office Collection Day 4: Thalapathy Vijay's Final Film Crosses ₹200 Crore Worldwide
