High Court Clears Release, Film Hits Theatres
The Kerala Story 2 released in theatres on Saturday, February 28, after the Kerala High Court lifted a temporary stay on its screening. A division bench comprising Justices Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and P V Balakrishnan set aside a previous single-judge order that had paused the film’s release for 15 days. The court passed the interim relief following an urgent appeal filed by producer Vipul Shah. As a result, theatres across the state began scheduled screenings, although controversy continued to surround the film’s subject matter.
Protest Erupts in Kannur and Thrissur
However, soon after its release, protests disrupted screenings in several locations. In Kannur, organisers cancelled the scheduled show following demonstrations by activists of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI). Meanwhile, in Thrissur, DYFI members led by district secretary K S Russal Raj marched to a local theatre and staged a symbolic protest. Demonstrators reportedly tore and burned posters outside cinema halls, forcing theatre management to halt screenings. Consequently, organisers initiated refunds for ticket holders as tensions escalated outside the venues.
Screenings Halted Across Multiple Theatres
The impact extended beyond one district. Reports indicated that Cinepolis at Mall of Travancore in Thiruvananthapuram also halted rescheduled shows following protests. Theatre authorities confirmed that low audience turnout and security concerns prompted cancellations in certain centres. Although the High Court permitted the release, ground-level opposition affected the film’s theatrical run in parts of Kerala. The situation highlights the continuing divide over the movie’s theme, which addresses allegations of forced religious conversions.
Makers Defend Film’s Intent
Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and produced by Vipul Shah under Sunshine Pictures, The Kerala Story 2 follows the lives of three young women who allegedly face deceptive marriages and forced conversions. The film’s trailer had already sparked political and social debate across the state. Addressing the media after the court verdict, Shah clarified that the film does not target Kerala or its people. Instead, he stated that the project aims to highlight specific incidents and encourage discussion. Nevertheless, protests indicate that public opinion remains sharply divided as the film continues its release amid heightened security and scrutiny.
