Controversy
After the release of the official teaser and trailer for The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond, the film became the subject of legal and political debate in India. In February 2026, a petitioner named Sreedev Namboodiri filed a writ petition before the Kerala High Court challenging the certification granted to the film by the Central Board of Film Certification. The petition argued that the film’s promotional material including its title and depiction of themes such as terrorism and alleged forced conversions could create a misleading regional association with the state of Kerala and disturb public order and communal harmony. [6] [7] The High Court issued notices to the producers, the CBFC, and the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and scheduled further hearings on the matter. [8]
Several public figures and organisations also commented on the film. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala, described the sequel as potentially promoting divisive narratives and called for careful consideration of its impact on communal harmony. [9] [10] Other political commentators, including senior leader Shashi Tharoor, also criticised the film’s messaging in public statements, prompting responses from both supporters and opponents of the project. [11] [12] The film was granted a U/A certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification, which drew further public discussion regarding the suitability of its themes for younger audiences. [13]
The Communist Party of India (Kerala state unit) reportedly passed a resolution opposing the film and urged reconsideration of its certification, alleging that it could create communal tension. [14] Union minister Giriraj Singh publicly defended the film, stating that filmmakers have the right to present their perspective. [15]
Political reactions were also reported outside Kerala. In Bihar, politician Pappu Yadav criticised the debate surrounding the film and questioned whether political parties should influence filmmaking decisions. [16] The film’s trailer also generated extensive discussion on social media platforms, with commentators debating whether it presents factual events or promotes a particular narrative. [17]
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap also criticised the film following the release of its trailer, describing it as “propaganda” and questioning the intent behind its narrative. [18] He reportedly termed the film “bakwaas” and alleged that it was aimed at creating division for commercial gain. [19] The trailer also sparked debate over a scene in which a Hindu woman is shown being forced to eat beef. [20] Critics and political groups in Kerala described the depiction as culturally misleading and argued that it misrepresented local food practices, where beef consumption is common across communities. [21] [22]
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