The controversy around ‘The Kerala Story 2’ just got a dramatic courtroom twist. What began as heated political chatter has now officially landed inside the halls of justice. That makes this sequel one of the most talked-about films even before release.
Kerala High Court has stepped in and issued notices to both the film’s certification body and its producers, after a petition demanded the movie’s censor certificate be cancelled.
Petition sparks the storm
The petition was filed by Sreedev Namboothiri, a resident of Chittariparamba in Kannur district. He alleged that the sequel presents “malicious and stereotypical projections” that scandalise an entire state without real evidence. In simple words, he believes the film paints Kerala unfairly and could create a false image about its people.
According to the plea, even though the story reportedly focuses on women from three different states and is largely set in northern India, the title and certain visuals still end up showing Kerala in a negative way.
The petitioner argued that this could alienate Kerala and its people from the rest of the country despite the fact that Keralites live and work across India and abroad, contributing strongly to the economy.
The plea makes it clear that the petitioner is not against filmmakers expressing their fears or creative ideas. However, he insists that those fears, whether real or imagined, should not be falsely attached to an entire state.
Court notices and next hearing
Taking the complaint seriously, the court has issued notices to the Central Board of Film Certification, asking it to respond.
The film’s producer, Sunshine Pictures, has also been directed to file its reply. The next hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24.
Trailer that lit the fire
The recently released trailer added fuel to controversy. It portrays Hindu women being trapped by Muslim men in the name of love suggesting that romance slowly turns into control and silence, eventually destroying freedom.
These intense themes immediately triggered strong reactions online and in political circles.
The film is written by Amarnath Jha and Vipul Amrutlal Shah, and directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh.
The debate is not limited to courts and cinema lovers. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had earlier strongly opposed reports about the sequel warning that it could be another attempt to create communal discord in the state.