The multi-lingual movie ‘The Kerala Story’ has faced controversy and an unofficial ban in theatres across the southern state of Kerala. Various youth organizations in Kerala staged demonstrations against the screening of the film, alleging that it is part of the Sangh Parivar’s divisive agenda. Additionally, the ruling CPI(M) and opposition Congress in Kerala have accused the movie of falsely claiming that 32,000 women were converted and radicalized and deployed in terror missions around the world.
The BJP state president, K Surendran, condemned the unofficial ban on the movie and alleged that the Congress, Left party, and religious fundamentalist organizations were threatening those who came to watch it. He also warned that if theatre owners restrict screening movies they do not like, it would adversely affect the film industry.
However, the Kerala High Court refused to stay the release of the film, stating that the movie trailer does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. The court further added that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition.
The movie, written and directed by Sudipto Sen and starring Adah Sharma, was released in theatres across the country on the same day. The film claims to explore the history and culture of Kerala and its diverse communities.
This incident highlights the ongoing debate around artistic freedom and expression in India, where censorship and unofficial bans on films are not uncommon. The film industry in India has often criticized the lack of a uniform certification process for movies and the arbitrary application of censorship rules.
The controversy surrounding ‘The Kerala Story’ raises questions about the role of cinema in shaping public opinion and the limits of artistic expression in a diverse and multicultural society like India. The incident highlights the need for a more transparent and standardized certification process for movies and the need to protect the right to free speech and artistic expression.