Kerala CM Slams ‘Kerala Story 2’ Trailer as Communally Divisive

Thiruvananthapuram : The recently released trailer of the much-anticipated Hindi film The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond has sparked a fresh political and social controversy, drawing sharp criticism from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Mr. Vijayan described the trailer as “false propaganda” and a danger to the state’s longstanding tradition of communal harmony and secular values. In a statement on Wednesday, he warned that the film could undermine Kerala’s reputation for religious amity and mutual respect among communities. According to the Chief Minister, the predecessor to this sequel had “intent to spread hatred against the State” and was premised on misleading narratives.

The trailer, which includes depictions related to forced religious conversions, has elicited heated debate on social media and in political circles. Supporters of the film’s makers argue that it highlights sensitive issues, while detractors including Mr. Vijayan contend that its portrayal could inflame communal sentiments.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has granted the film a U/A certificate, permitting viewers aged 14 and above to watch it under parental guidance. Producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah welcomed the certification, saying it would allow the film to reach a wider audience, including young women and families.

Scheduled for release on February 27, The Kerala Story 2 is a sequel to the 2023 film The Kerala Story, which drew widespread criticism and legal challenges for its portrayal of inter-religious relationships and alleged forced conversions, but went on to achieve commercial success.

The controversy has reignited discussions about the responsibility of cinema in representing social realities and the balance between creative expression and communal harmony in a diverse society.