Kerala CM opposes ‘The Kerala Story 2’, says film threatens state’s secular values

The trailer of The Kerala Story 2 has reportedly triggered controversy soon after its release, with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan alleging that the film poses a threat to Kerala’s secular values.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, CM Vijayan warned that the upcoming film could undermine Kerala’s long-standing tradition of religious harmony, which he described as central to the state’s identity, as per reports.

He alleged that the first part was already filled with lies, hatred and anti-Kerala propaganda, and now the sequel, which reportedly depicts incidents of forced religious conversion, also promotes divisive narratives.

As per reports, Kerala CM questioned why “poisonous works produced to spread division and hatred in society” were allowed to be screened in public, while certain other films faced restrictions. He criticised what he described as the portrayal of consensual interfaith marriages as instances of communalism and forced conversion.

The CM also alleged that forces hostile to Kerala were attempting to disturb the state’s communal harmony through such films. Describing them as “enemies of the state”, he said Kerala has a history of communal peace and mutual respect among communities.

He urged the people to uphold secular values and brotherhood.

In a post on X, Vijayan reiterated his appeal for unity against what he termed divisive propaganda, asserting that truth would prevail.

The first film in the series featured actors including Adah Sharma and was directed by Sudipto Sen. Despite facing bans and protests in some states, the film performed strongly at the box office and went on to win National Film Awards, including Best Director for Sen.

The Kerala Story 2, starring Ulka Gupta, Aishwarya Ojha and Aditi Bhatia, is scheduled for release on February 27.