The issue of a horse being used in the Imsai Arasan, has become major controversy which has halted its release. After struggle, producer (director) Shankar and director Simbhudevan managed to get a censor certificate for this film. But the officials at the Censor Board have insisted that they get an No Objection Certificate from Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). AWBI prohibits the use of certain animals and birds in films. To use these animals like the horse in Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi used by Vadivelu in war scenes, Simbudevan and Shankar should have taken the prior approval of AWBI. Shankar claims that he was ignorant of such rules.
It may be recalled that Aamir Khan faced similar problems with Rang De Basanti as there is a scene when he rides a horse. Shankar had approached the court. The court issued an order recently asking AWBI to issue an NOC, but they have referred the issue back to the censors saying that they can do so at their own discretion. For know, the issue is still pending and the release of Imsai Arasan has been delayed. Imsai stars Vadivelu, Monica, Nandhitha and Tejashree. Directed by Simbhudevan, the movie is being produced by Shankar. Music is by Sabesh Murali and lyrics by Pulamai Pithan.