Anurag Kashyap calls the film Kerala Story 2 propaganda, while the director defends it as research-based and rooted in real incidents
New Delhi: The upcoming Hindi film The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond has created a big controversy even before its release on February 27, 2026. The issue started after the makers released the trailer of the film on youtube by Channel Sunshine Pictures and Sunshine Music. The trailer shows scenes of young Hindu women who are allegedly trapped in relationships, forced to change their religion and even force-fed beef.
After the trailer was released, social media platforms were flooded with reactions. Some people said the film talks about serious issues like coercion and forced religious conversions. Others said it spreads communal propaganda and gives a negative image of Kerala. The debate quickly grew beyond social media.
A petition was later filed in the Kerala High Court against the film. The plea questioned the certification of the movie and argued that it could create tension in society. The petitioner said the sequel, like the first film released in 2023, might misrepresent the state. The High Court issued notices to the filmmakers and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and asked for their response.
Kashyap’s Sharp Criticism
The controversy became bigger when filmmaker Anurag Kashyap criticised the film publicly. While speaking at an event in Kochi, he called The Kerala Story 2 “bullsh*t propaganda.” He questioned the authenticity of some scenes shown in the trailer.
Referring to a scene where a character is shown being force-fed beef, Kashyap said sarcastically, “Aise kaun beef khilata hai? Aise toh koi khichdi bhi nahi khilata hai.” Through this comment, he suggested that the scene looked exaggerated and unrealistic.
He further claimed that the film tries to divide people and create controversy for commercial gain. He accused the filmmakers of making such content for money and called the film divisive. His remarks quickly went viral and triggered strong reactions from different sections of the film industry and the public.
Reactions From Others
Several public figures reacted to the controversy. Actor Prakash Raj indirectly mocked the narrative by posting pictures of beef and pork dishes on social media. He suggested that food choices in India reflect diversity and harmony rather than conflict.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also strongly criticised the film. In a statement posted on X, he said that reports about the release of a sequel to what he described as a hate-mongering film should be viewed with utmost seriousness. He said that after witnessing the communal agenda and blatant lies in the first part, Kerala would once again reject any attempt to insult its secular fabric. He added that it is shocking that fabricated narratives meant to create communal discord are allowed to pass freely, while critical voices are silenced. The Chief Minister said people must stand united against attempts to portray Kerala, a land of harmony, as a hub of terror. He concluded by saying that truth will always prevail.
At the same time, supporters of the film said the story highlights sensitive but real issues. They argued that the movie should not be judged only on the basis of the trailer.
Director’s Strong Reply
Director Kamakhya Narayan Singh responded strongly to Anurag Kashyap through a post and video on X (formerly Twitter). In his post, he directly addressed Kashyap.
He wrote that the issue is not about showing khichdi, beef or any food item. According to him, the real issue is consent and coercion. He said no one has the right to feed even khichdi to someone against their will. If a film raises questions about forced actions or pressure, calling it hate-mongering is intellectual dishonesty, he added.
Also Read: ‘Chanakya of Bengal Politics’ Mukul Roy Dies at 71 in Kolkata
In his post, he also said, “Your lies are creative freedom, and our truth is propaganda.” He urged people to debate facts and data instead of using labels like “bullsh*t” or “bootlicker” to shut down discussion.
In the video message, Singh accused Kashyap of being mentally weak and said he has developed a habit of criticising everything. He maintained that the film does not spread hate but talks about serious issues that need attention.
Singh also offered to share all the research materials related to the film with Kashyap. He claimed that the movie is based on real incidents and proper research. He said dismissing it without checking the facts is unfair.
Background Of Sequel
The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is another sequel to the 2023 film ‘The Kerala Story’. The first film also created a lot of controversy. It claimed that thousands of women from Kerala were forced into religious conversion and extremist activities. While the film performed well at the box office, critics questioned its claims and accused it of exaggeration.
The sequel continues to focus on themes of religious conversion, coercion and social pressure. The makers say they want to show untold stories. Critics, however, argue that such portrayals can increase communal tensions.
Producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah and director Kamakhya Narayan Singh have repeatedly said that the film is based on documented cases. They insist that their aim is to start a discussion, not spread hatred.
Legal And Public Debate
The petition in the Kerala High Court has kept the issue alive. The petitioner said the film could disturb communal harmony and requested a review of its certification. The court has asked the producers and CBFC to respond. The matter is still under legal review.
Public opinion remains divided. Some people believe the film highlights real and uncomfortable truths. Others feel that cinema should not promote narratives that may create fear or misunderstanding among communities.
Release Amid Controversy
Despite the criticism and legal challenges, The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is scheduled to release in theatres on February 27, 2026. The clash between Anurag Kashyap and Kamakhya Narayan Singh has made the film one of the most talked-about projects of the year.
The debate around the film reflects a larger discussion in India about artistic freedom, political narratives and social responsibility in cinema. Whether audiences see the film as an honest attempt to show reality or as propaganda will only become clear after its release. For now, the film continues to remain at the centre of a heated national conversation.
Watch The Kerala Story 2 Trailer Below:
khushisikarwar is an award-winning journalist and content creator who thrives on telling stories that matter. As a key contributor to Newsisland, [she] focus on cultural commentary, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.
