The much‑anticipated Tamil film *Jana Nayagan* premiered in Tiruchi amidst grand celebrations, filling every cinema and multiplex to capacity. The movie marks the swansong of C. Joseph Vijay, the actor‑turned‑Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Originally slated for a 9 January release ahead of the Pongal festival, the film was delayed due to certification hurdles and a legal battle. In April, a high‑definition copy was leaked on piracy sites, adding to the producers’ woes.

Despite these setbacks, all theatres in the city ran full‑house shows from Thursday morning. Flex boards bearing congratulatory messages sprouted across Tiruchi, announcing the launch. For many members of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the screening was an emotional milestone, as Vijay’s long‑standing acting career draws to a close.

State Assembly Deputy Speaker M. Ravisankar, after watching the film, remarked that it was sad to see Vijay no longer appear on the big screen. A senior official at LA Cinema, Tiruverumbur, confirmed six shows on six screens for the day, with the morning show sold out at 1,514 viewers and expectations of full houses for the remaining slots.

Ticket pricing starts at ₹190 through an online system, but the “first‑day‑first‑show” frenzy led some vendors to charge up to ₹500 on the black market, prompting complaints from fans. One parent said they would wait for a TV or OTT release rather than pay inflated prices.

Fan fervour was evident: die‑hard supporters donned Vijay‑themed T‑shirts, set off firecrackers outside the Chathiram area, and two caparisoned dancing horses added to the festive atmosphere. TVK’s women’s wing arrived in matching lavender saris, while two‑wheelers were haphazardly parked on sidewalks due to limited parking.

Inside the auditoriums, cheers erupted during the opening credits as the screen displayed “The Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thalapathy Vijay.” College students Gokul and Godwin, after attending class, rushed to the cinema. Godwin, who had already seen the leaked version online, said he wanted to experience Vijay’s action, dance, and singing on the big screen again.

The overwhelming response underscores Vijay’s massive fan base and the cultural significance of his final cinematic appearance.