The makers of Rajinikanth’s blockbuster ‘Coolie,’ directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, have taken their fight against the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) ‘A’ certificate to the Madras High Court.
Sun Pictures, the film’s production house, argues that the restrictive adults-only rating unfairly limits the film’s reach, particularly among younger fans, given the superstar’s multigenerational appeal. The legal challenge, admitted by Justice TV Thamilselvi on August 19, 2025, is set for further hearing, spotlighting a contentious debate over film certification standards.
The high-budget action entertainer, marking Rajinikanth’s 50 years in cinema, features a star-studded cast including Nagarjuna Akkineni and Aamir Khan. Despite its mass appeal, the CBFC’s decision to impose an ‘A’ rating, citing violent content, has sparked protests from fans and parents clashing with theatre owners to secure access for children across Tamil Nadu.
Sun Pictures Argues for U/A Rating
Sun Pictures contends that ‘Coolie’ deserves a U/A certificate, similar to other action-packed blockbusters like ‘KGF’ and ‘Beast,’ which were deemed suitable for audiences above 12 with parental guidance.
In court, senior advocate J Ravindran, supported by M Sneha, emphasized that the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021, grant the High Court jurisdiction to hear such appeals, especially after the dissolution of the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal.
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The producers’ plea highlights that the CBFC’s examining and revising committees repeatedly rejected their requests for a less restrictive rating, despite arguments that the film’s action sequences align with industry norms for U/A certifications.
The production house underscored Rajinikanth’s widespread fanbase, arguing that excluding viewers under 18 undermines the celebratory spirit of the film, envisioned as a family-friendly mass entertainer.
The courtroom saw pushback from Central government counsel A Kumaraguru, who questioned the plea’s maintainability, but the court proceeded to list the case for further deliberation.
Fan Frustration and Theatre Clashes
The ‘A’ certificate has fueled discontent among Rajinikanth’s fans, with many parents in Tamil Nadu engaging in heated disputes with theatre management to allow children into screenings.
The restriction has sparked widespread debate, as ‘Coolie’ was anticipated as a milestone release celebrating the superstar’s five-decade cinematic legacy. Social media reflects fans’ frustration, with many echoing the sentiment that the CBFC’s decision overlooks the film’s cultural significance and broad appeal.
As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome could set a precedent for how action films are certified in India, particularly for projects with massive fan expectations. For now, Sun Pictures remains steadfast in its pursuit of a U/A rating to ensure ‘Coolie’ reaches the widest possible audience.
