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Acclaimed Filmmakers Criticize “The Kerala Story 2” Over Controversial Content
Renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap and veteran actor Prakash Raj have publicly denounced the upcoming film “The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond,” scheduled for release on February 27, 2026. Their criticism adds to growing controversy surrounding the sequel to the polarizing 2023 film.
Kashyap minced no words when questioned by reporters at Cochin Airport, where he arrived for the 70th Filmfare Awards. “It’s a bulls**t propaganda movie,” the “Kennedy” director stated bluntly. He accused the filmmakers of deliberately creating hatred for financial gain, calling the producer “a greedy person.” Kashyap further criticized the film’s portrayal of forced beef consumption, stating, “People don’t even feed Khichdi like they are feeding beef in the movie.”
Meanwhile, Prakash Raj took to X (formerly Twitter) with his own critique, writing: “The real Kerala Story is how pork, beef and fish coexist with vegetarian sadya and all of them live in harmony.” His comment highlights the state’s diverse culinary traditions that peacefully coexist.
The controversy stems largely from a scene in the film’s trailer showing Muslims allegedly forcing a woman to eat beef. This portrayal has sparked widespread criticism, especially among Keralites. In response, many social media influencers have posted satirical videos demonstrating Malayalis’ actual voluntary enjoyment of beef, countering the film’s narrative.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has also weighed in, expressing grave concerns about the film. “The news regarding the release of a sequel to ‘The Kerala Story’ – a film specifically designed to sow seeds of hatred and insult the state’s secular tradition – must be viewed with extreme gravity,” Vijayan stated on social media.
Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh, “The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond” expands beyond the original film’s Kerala-centric focus to include Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. According to available information, the sequel promotes a controversial premise suggesting that India could become an Islamic state under Sharia law within 25 years.
The film has already faced legal challenges. The Kerala High Court recently issued notices to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), the Union Government, and the film’s producers following a petition filed by Sreedev Namboodiri from Kannur district. The petition seeks revocation of the film’s certification and demands changes, including reconsideration of its title. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, heading the bench that issued the notices, has scheduled a hearing for February 24.
Unlike the original film directed by Sudipto Sen, the sequel is helmed by National Award winner Kamakhya Narayan Singh and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah under his Sunshine Pictures banner. The new installment features a fresh cast including television actors Ulka Gupta as Surekha, Aditi Bhatia as Divya, and Aishwarya Ojha as Neha.
The original “The Kerala Story” generated significant controversy upon its release, with critics accusing it of spreading misinformation and religious prejudice through its narrative about alleged “love jihad” in Kerala. Supporters defended the film as exposing purported social issues.
This sequel arrives at a time when India continues to grapple with religious tensions and polarized discourse. Films addressing sensitive sociopolitical issues often face intense scrutiny from both critics and supporters, with debates centering on the boundaries between artistic expression, political commentary, and propaganda.
As the release date approaches, the controversy surrounding “The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond” underscores the ongoing tensions between creative freedom and responsible filmmaking, particularly when addressing sensitive religious and cultural themes in India’s diverse society.
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7 Comments
The claims of forced beef consumption in the film’s trailer are quite troubling. I’m glad to see respected filmmakers like Kashyap and Raj calling out this type of sensationalism and inaccuracy. Responsible storytelling is essential.
Interesting to see the controversy around this film. I’m curious to learn more about the portrayal of Kerala’s diverse culinary traditions and how they coexist peacefully. Filmmakers should be mindful of not perpetuating harmful stereotypes or propaganda.
It’s good to see prominent voices in the industry speaking out against the potential harms of this film. Promoting divisiveness and misinformation is irresponsible and can have real consequences. I hope the makers reconsider their approach.
I appreciate Anurag Kashyap and Prakash Raj’s critiques. Promoting divisiveness and hatred for financial gain is unethical. Responsible filmmaking should aim to foster understanding and respect for different communities and cultures.
The critiques from Kashyap and Raj raise important questions about the film’s accuracy and intent. Responsible filmmaking should aim to foster understanding, not sow division. I’m curious to see how the makers respond to these concerns.
This sounds like a concerning case of potentially misleading or propagandistic filmmaking. I hope the issues raised by Kashyap and Raj are taken seriously and the film is revised to present a more accurate and inclusive representation of Kerala.
The Kerala Story 2 seems to be a highly contentious film. I wonder if the makers will address the concerns raised by these respected filmmakers and reconsider their approach. Nuanced storytelling that reflects the realities of the state would be more valuable.