Janaki” and Judicial Wisdom: A Constitutional Lens on Artistic Freedom and CBFC's Role By Advocate Prabal Bhandari www.prabalbhandari.com In a moment that resonates with constitutional clarity and judicial maturity, the Kerala High Court reminded the nation this week that art is not to be shackled by arbitrary gatekeeping , especially not when the freedom of expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) is at stake. The matter in question arose from a legal challenge filed by M/s Cosmos Entertainments , the production house behind the upcoming Malayalam film “JSK: Janaki v State of Kerala” , starring Union Minister Suresh Gopi . The controversy? The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) allegedly raised informal objections to the use of the name “Janaki” —claiming it refers to Goddess Sita and could, therefore, hurt religious sentiments. This objection, as presented by the Deputy Solicitor General of India , was purportedly based on the CBFC's interpretation of r...