“Coolie”Rated “A”: Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Violence Debate Reignites

New Delhi, 2 august,2025 :The highly anticipated film “Coolie,” starring superstar Rajinikanth and directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, has reportedly been granted an “A” certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). This development, widely circulated among industry insiders and fan communities, has sparked considerable discussion and has specifically brought to mind director Kanagaraj’s previous assertations regarding his commitment to depicting violence without compromise in his cinematic ventures.

The decision by the CBFC indicates that the film’s content is considered suitable only for adult audiences, a categorization that is often attributed to themes of violence, mature language, or explicit situations. While specific reasons for the “A” certification have not been officially disclosed by either the filmmakers or the CBFC, speculation within fan circles suggests that the intensity and realism of the action sequences, a hallmark of Kanagaraj’s directorial style, may have played a significant role.

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Fans of both Rajinikanth and Lokesh Kanagaraj have been actively engaging in online conversations since the news broke. Many have been quick to recall a statement made by Kanagaraj during earlier promotional activities, or perhaps in an interview, where it was emphatically stated that “no compromises on violence” would be made in his films. This declaration, which had previously resonated with a segment of his audience appreciative of his unvarnished approach to action, is now being revisited in light of the “A” certificate. The sentiment among these fans appears to be one of vindication, as it is perceived that the director has indeed remained true to his word, even if it means a more restrictive audience classification for a film starring a universally beloved icon like Rajinikanth.

Historically, films featuring Rajinikanth have often targeted a broader audience, with many receiving U or U/A certifications to ensure widespread family viewership. The “A” certificate for “Coolie” therefore marks a notable departure and suggests a shift in the creative direction being explored with the superstar. This new classification could also be interpreted as a testament to Lokesh Kanagaraj’s growing influence as a filmmaker whose artistic vision is being prioritized, even when it challenges conventional expectations for a Rajinikanth starrer.

The implications of an “A” certificate for “Coolie” are being carefully considered by trade analysts. While it may limit the immediate family audience, it is also believed that the director’s established fan base, known for appreciating his raw and intense storytelling, will be strongly drawn to the film regardless of its certification. Furthermore, the very discussion surrounding the “A” certificate and Kanagaraj’s statements is inadvertently generating significant pre-release buzz, ensuring that “Coolie” remains a prominent topic of conversation leading up to its theatrical debut. As anticipation continues to build, all eyes are now being turned towards the film’s eventual release, where the full extent of its content and the audience’s reception to its mature themes will finally be revealed. The film’s producers and distributors are expected to adjust their marketing strategies accordingly, with a focus on appealing to the adult demographic that has now been officially identified as the target audience.