The Kerala High Court on Tuesday ordered the producers of the controversial film The Kerala Story 2 to refrain from releasing its rights until the court delivers a verdict on petitions challenging its certification. During the hearing, the bench noted that the concerns raised by the petitioners appeared valid and directed the filmmakers to pause their release plans. The court emphasized that the film should not be released as scheduled and instructed the makers to await the conclusion of the hearing, allowing sufficient time to examine the petitions.
The bench also questioned the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for granting a U/A certificate instead of an ‘A’ rating, expressing surprise over the decision. It pointed out that the producers themselves were not pushing for an immediate screening and highlighted the limited time available for a thorough review.
In defense, the CBFC’s counsel cited precedents where films used names of Indian states or cities in their titles—such as Go Goa Gone, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, and Delhi Belly—suggesting that objections to the title were not unprecedented.
The producers’ legal team argued that the film centers on women survivors’ experiences and maintained that the petition raised broader legal issues. They contended that the demand to quash the certification lacked legal basis. The court underscored that Kerala is an integral part of India and stated the issue concerns the dignity of the entire nation, not just Kerala.
After preliminary submissions, the High Court recorded an undertaking from the filmmakers to await its ruling before proceeding further. The case was adjourned and will resume on February 26.Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, The Kerala Story 2 recently sparked political and public debate following the release of its trailer. The film, starring Ulka Gupta, Aditi Bhatia, and Aishwarya Ojha, was scheduled for release on February 27.
