Kani Nilam

The title of the film was originally ( ). The initially refused to certify the film because of its negative portrayal of politicians (which the board believed would lead to anti-government beliefs), and many derogatory references to politicians based in Tamil Nadu. After the film faced three months of limbo, it was cleared by the board with a after 18 cuts. According to Cho, however, the film was not meant to defame or vilify anyone: “It only shows corruption at the political level seeping down to the grassroots”. was released on 14 August 1987. Nandalala of wrote the film “proves to be somewhat of a letdown […] the end product is a slipshod patchwork which will not cut ice either with the groundlings or with the more discerning”. of also gave the film a negative review, saying innovative angles, neat editing and gripping direction were missing. The film was later selected for screening at the .