Digital News Guru Entertainment Desk:
Kerala High Court stays release of The Kerala Story 2
The Kerala High Court has issued an interim stay on the theatrical release of the highly anticipated film The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond, just one day before its scheduled premiere on February 27, 2026. The order, passed by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, temporarily blocks screenings and distribution while the court further reviews legal challenges.
What triggered the legal action?
The stay follows multiple petitions filed in the High Court alleging that the film’s certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) was flawed and that its content could mislead public perception and disrupt communal harmony. Petitioners contended that the trailer and promotional material portrayed Kerala — a pluralistic and peaceful state — in a negative and potentially polarising light.
Court’s concerns about CBFC certification
The High Court specifically questioned whether the CBFC applied its mind properly before granting a U/A certificate, saying there were prima facie signs that the board may have overlooked established guidelines designed to prevent films from provoking discord or harming law and order. The judge noted that material in the teaser, and the film’s claim that it was “inspired by true events,” could be misleading or create unwarranted impressions about a community or region.
Legal basis for the stay
The interim order is meant to give the court time to examine the petitions in detail, including questions about whether the CBFC’s certification adhered to statutory norms under the Cinematograph Act and whether the film’s content might risk disturbing social harmony. Until the court completes this review, the release remains halted.
Background of the film and its predecessor
The Kerala Story 2 is a sequel to the controversial The Kerala Story (2023), which sparked heated debate nationwide over its depiction of sensitive issues such as forced conversions and terrorism in the state. The sequel, directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, continues in a similar narrative vein, presenting stories it describes as inspired by real events.
Contentious points raised by petitioners
- Use of “Kerala” in the title: Petitioners argued that the title The Kerala Story 2 — despite the sequel’s themes not being directly tied to the state — unfairly associates Kerala and its people with the issues portrayed, which they said could stigmatise the state.
- Trailer concerns: Critics highlighted scenes in the trailer that they claimed misrepresent cultural and social realities, potentially reinforcing stereotypes or inciting tensions.
- Potential for communal tensions: The court noted that if the trailer and content suggest divisive themes, it could provoke reactions that harm peace and public order.
CBFC edits and certification issues
Before the controversy reached the courts, the CBFC had reportedly granted the film a U/A (Parental Guidance) certificate after directing the filmmakers to make multiple cuts — including trimming intimate and violent scenes and adding disclaimers. This was intended to address concerns about how content was presented.
Producers’ response and next steps
Film producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah has challenged the stay order, asserting that the CBFC has the constitutional authority to certify films and that its decision followed due procedure. The makers are expected to approach the Supreme Court to seek urgent relief or overturn the High Court’s decision, aiming to restore the release schedule.
Ongoing hearings and future timeline
The High Court is scheduled to continue hearings on petitions and may require detailed screening of the film before final judgement. Opponents argue public interest and peace of mind justify thorough judicial review, while supporters of the filmmakers emphasise artistic freedom and regulatory authority resting with the CBFC.
This situation marks a major legal and cultural moment in India’s film industry, highlighting ongoing tensions between creative expression, regulatory oversight, and societal sensitivities — especially when a film deals with polarising issues and carries strong claims of being based on “true events.”
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