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Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap Denounces “The Kerala Story 2” as “Propaganda”
Acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has added his voice to the growing criticism of the upcoming film “The Kerala Story 2,” calling it “bullsh*t propaganda” during a recent media interaction at Kochi airport.
Kashyap, who was in Kerala attending the Filmfare Awards, did not mince words when asked about the controversial sequel. The “Gangs of Wasseypur” director specifically addressed a viral scene from the trailer depicting forced beef consumption, questioning its authenticity.
“Who feeds someone beef like this? No one is fed even khichdi this way,” Kashyap remarked, challenging the film’s portrayal of religious conversion tactics.
The filmmaker went further in his criticism, questioning the motives behind such productions. “They just want to make money and please everybody; divide people. The filmmaker is a greedy man. He just wants to make money,” Kashyap stated, suggesting that commercial interests and social division were driving factors behind the project.
Kashyap’s comments follow Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s earlier condemnation of the film, indicating growing political and cultural resistance to the sequel.
“The Kerala Story 2,” produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, expands on its 2023 predecessor by broadening its narrative scope. While the original focused specifically on Kerala, the sequel portrays young women from various states allegedly being manipulated into converting to Islam. The film stars Ulka Gupta, Aditi Bhatia, and Aishwarya Ojha in principal roles.
The original film sparked significant controversy upon its release last year, with critics accusing it of promoting religious stereotypes and communal division. Supporters, however, defended it as bringing attention to what they claim are real issues of religious conversion and radicalization.
Kashyap’s comments have resonated with many social media users, with the clip of his airport interview going viral across platforms. One X (formerly Twitter) user expressed solidarity, writing, “I won’t watch even if it’s free,” while a Reddit commenter called it “The best thing I’ve seen all day.”
Not all reactions have been supportive, however. Some online commenters defended the film’s premise, with one noting, “Keep calling it propaganda when a case literally happened a few days ago! With the same things that were shown in the movie!” This commenter suggested that the film depicts actual events that “don’t align with [critics’] beliefs and agendas.”
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in India’s film industry regarding politically charged content. Recent years have seen an increase in films addressing religious and political themes, often generating heated debates about artistic freedom, historical accuracy, and social responsibility.
Media analysts note that the box office success of the first “Kerala Story” – which grossed over ₹200 crore despite (or perhaps because of) its controversial subject matter – likely motivated the production of this sequel.
As the release date approaches, industry watchers anticipate further debate surrounding the film, particularly given the high-profile criticisms from figures like Kashyap and Chief Minister Vijayan.
For now, the filmmakers behind “The Kerala Story 2” have not directly responded to Kashyap’s remarks, though the publicity generated by such controversy may ultimately serve the film’s marketing strategy regardless of the criticism’s content.
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10 Comments
Anurag Kashyap raises valid concerns about the potential propaganda and profiteering behind ‘The Kerala Story 2’. His critique of the film’s authenticity and director’s motivations is thought-provoking.
Kashyap’s willingness to directly challenge the ‘The Kerala Story 2’ filmmaker’s motives is commendable. Filmmakers must be held to high standards when addressing complex, politically charged topics.
The Kerala CM’s earlier condemnation of the film, along with Kashyap’s scathing remarks, suggest there are valid concerns about the project’s potential to inflame religious tensions and spread misinformation.
Kashyap’s criticism of the ‘The Kerala Story 2’ as ‘bullsh*t propaganda’ and a money-making scheme is a sobering take. The authenticity and intentions behind such films deserve closer scrutiny.
Anurag Kashyap’s rebuke of ‘The Kerala Story 2’ raises important questions about the line between creative expression and irresponsible propaganda. Filmmakers should be held accountable for the impact of their work.
Agreed. The filmmaker’s alleged pursuit of profits at the expense of historical accuracy and social cohesion is deeply troubling. Kashyap’s perspective deserves serious consideration.
Kashyap’s comments highlight the importance of critically examining films that claim to tackle sensitive sociopolitical issues. Responsible filmmaking should prioritize nuance and factual accuracy over commercial interests.
It’s concerning to see films being used to spread divisive narratives under the guise of ‘entertainment’. Kashyap’s perspective provides a needed counterpoint to the filmmaker’s claims.
I agree. Filmmakers have a responsibility to portray sensitive topics with nuance and accuracy, not sensationalism. Kashyap’s comments shine a light on the potential dangers of such productions.
Anurag Kashyap’s critique of ‘The Kerala Story 2’ as propaganda highlights the need for greater scrutiny of films that claim to depict sensitive social and religious issues. Responsible representation is crucial.