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The producers of the controversial film “The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond” are defending their project against widespread criticism, insisting that the film does not target Kerala or its people, but rather aims to highlight overlooked social issues affecting vulnerable individuals.
Producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah addressed mounting backlash this week as the film prepares for its nationwide release on February 27, 2026. With political figures, filmmakers, and social media users weighing in on the project, Shah described the criticism as “very sad” while standing firmly behind the film’s message.
“We aren’t making this film against Kerala or its people,” Shah told reporters during recent media interactions. “Whether people call our story true or false doesn’t matter to us. But for those who have lived through these situations, whose lives have been destroyed, or whose family members have suffered—it deeply affects them when these narratives are dismissed as falsehoods.”
The sequel follows the 2023 release “The Kerala Story,” which itself generated significant controversy for its portrayal of radicalization and religious conversion. Critics challenged the original film’s use of statistics and narrative framing, questioning its accuracy and potential for inflaming communal tensions.
Shah acknowledged that controversy was anticipated but expressed surprise at the intensity of the opposition. “What astonishes us is that when we make such films and present these issues, even after hearing these stories, a lobby seems to stand with the criminals,” he said. “It’s very painful, because the question isn’t just about a film—it’s about our society, our country, and our nation’s daughters.”
The promotional trailer for the sequel has ignited heated debates across social media platforms. Critics argue that scenes depicted in the trailer could reinforce divisive narratives and potentially heighten communal tensions, particularly concerning given the film’s release timing ahead of key state elections.
Political leaders from various parties have questioned whether the film’s handling of sensitive social issues is responsible or constructive to broader conversations on communal harmony. Several prominent filmmakers have also joined the debate, raising concerns about the balance between creative expression and potential societal impact.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap reportedly criticized the project as propaganda, prompting a sharp response from the film’s creative team. The ongoing public disagreement highlights the increasingly polarized nature of discussions surrounding the film.
Supporters defend “The Kerala Story 2” as opening necessary dialogues about experiences they claim are often marginalized in mainstream discourse. They argue that the film provides a platform for stories that deserve attention, regardless of controversy.
The film arrives at a moment when Indian cinema is increasingly grappling with the intersection of entertainment, social issues, and politics. Recent years have seen multiple films become flashpoints for broader cultural debates, with audiences and critics questioning the responsibility filmmakers have in shaping public perceptions.
Industry analysts note that controversy can significantly impact box office performance in unpredictable ways. While some controversial films have suffered from boycott campaigns, others have leveraged the attention to drive audience interest. The financial stakes for “The Kerala Story 2” are considerable, with production companies watching closely to see how the public reception unfolds.
The Central Board of Film Certification’s approval of the film has itself become part of the conversation, with questions about how regulatory bodies evaluate potentially divisive content. Some critics argue for greater scrutiny, while others emphasize the importance of protecting creative freedom.
With its theatrical release imminent, “The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond” is positioned to be one of Bollywood’s most discussed and contested projects of early 2026. The film’s reception may extend far beyond the box office, potentially influencing broader cultural and political conversations across India in the months to come.
As the debate continues, both supporters and critics seem to agree on one point: the power of cinema to shape narratives and influence public opinion remains as significant as ever in contemporary Indian society.
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8 Comments
While I understand the creators’ intent, the original film’s portrayal of radicalization and conversion was quite controversial. I hope the sequel takes a more balanced, fact-based approach to these sensitive social issues affecting the region.
The Kerala region has faced complex challenges, and I appreciate the creators wanting to shed light on them. However, the use of statistics and framing in the original film raised concerns. I’m interested to see if the sequel offers a more nuanced perspective.
It’s good the filmmakers are standing by their message, even in the face of criticism. Highlighting vulnerable populations and challenging narratives can be important, but must be done thoughtfully. I’m curious to see how they approach this delicate topic in the sequel.
Interesting to hear the creators clarify their intent with this new film. While it may be a sensitive topic, open dialogue is important to shed light on overlooked social issues, even if the portrayals are disputed. I’ll reserve judgment until I can review the film myself.
While open dialogue is valuable, the creators’ defensiveness raises red flags. Sensitivity and nuance are crucial when depicting sensitive social issues that deeply impact people’s lives. I hope the sequel can navigate this minefield more carefully.
It’s understandable the creators feel passionate about this topic, but dismissing legitimate criticism as simply ‘falsehoods’ is concerning. I’ll wait to reserve judgment until I can assess the sequel’s approach and treatment of these complex social dynamics.
This sounds like a complex and potentially polarizing project. I appreciate the creators acknowledging the impact on those who have personally experienced the situations depicted. Nuanced storytelling is crucial when addressing such charged subject matter.
Addressing overlooked social issues is important, but it must be done responsibly, especially when dealing with topics as charged as radicalization and religious conversion. I hope the filmmakers can strike the right balance in their storytelling.