Director Kamakhya Narayan Singh’s film The Kerala Story 2, released in February, has ignited a mix of reactions among audiences. The movie’s subject matter has stirred debate, with prominent political figures weighing in. Rahul Gandhi, a leader of the opposition from the Indian National Congress, criticized the film, stating that it is largely going unwatched. Conversely, Surbhi Tiwari, the wife of BJP MP Manoj Tiwari, offered strong support, describing it as a “mirror to society.”
In a post from the official Congress account on X (formerly Twitter), Gandhi expressed his views, asserting, “Nobody is really watching The Kerala Story.” He emphasized that the film does not resonate with the majority, who value the traditions and culture of Kerala. Gandhi also noted that media has become a tool for vilifying communities, leading to societal divisions that benefit specific groups while harming others.
He pointed out the challenges faced by filmmakers and those defending particular narratives, highlighting the imbalance where certain stories can be freely propagated without consequence, while others are met with hostility. This statement reflects broader concerns about freedom of expression in media and film.
On the other side of the debate, Surbhi Tiwari has defended The Kerala Story 2. In comments to ANI, she responded to the criticism by encouraging audiences to engage with the film firsthand. “Come to the theatres, watch the movie, then read documents and cases,” she stated, urging people to discern whether the film is indeed propaganda or reflective of societal realities. Tiwari insists that the film transcends mere entertainment, advocating for reflection on social issues portrayed within its narrative.
The Kerala Story 2 serves as a sequel to Sudipto Sen’s original 2023 film. It follows the harrowing experiences of three women portrayed by Ulka Gupta, Aditi Bhatia, and Aishwarya Ojha, who find themselves victims of an abusive narrative after marrying outside their faith. The film has previously faced legal challenges, including a petition at the Kerala High Court to halt its release. However, a bench ultimately lifted the earlier stay, allowing the film to be shown in theatres.
As discussions surrounding the film continue, it remains a focal point for debates about representation, societal values, and the role of film in shaping public discourse.