The controversy around The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond escalated on February 24 following reports that the film’s teaser had been removed amid legal scrutiny. However, the makers have firmly denied these claims. In an official statement, Sunshine Pictures clarified, “The news circulating about the removal of The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond teaser is completely false, baseless, and misleading.
The matter is currently sub judice, and no court has issued any order directing the removal of any content. We have not deleted or taken down any material. Both the teaser and trailer remain available on all our official platforms. We urge media, digital platforms, and individuals to avoid spreading unverified and speculative reports that only cause unnecessary confusion.
”This clarification follows the Kerala High Court raising serious concerns about the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) approval of the film. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, while hearing three petitions seeking a stay on the film’s release and cancellation of its certification, highlighted the CBFC’s responsibility especially given the film’s portrayal of Kerala, a secular state, which petitioners argue is shown through a communal lens.
During the hearing, the Court emphasized Kerala’s secular fabric and communal harmony, questioning whether the film’s depiction of events across the state might send a misleading message and potentially incite communal passions. The judge noted that this is precisely why the censor board’s role is critical.
Since the film is promoted as inspired by true events, Justice Thomas observed the petitioners’ concerns appear to have prima facie merit. The inclusion of ‘Kerala’ in the title, the judge added, raises public apprehension about possible communal tension.Senior Advocate S. Sreekumar, representing the producers, agreed to withdraw the existing teasers until the Court’s verdict and offered to arrange a special screening for the judge. The Court is expected to view the film before proceeding with further hearings.
The sequel follows the controversial The Kerala Story, which depicted alleged recruitment of women from Kerala into ISIS. Petitioners argue that the sequel’s promotional content including the tagline “ab sahenge nahin… ladenge”could incite confrontation and disturb public order. Several pleas challenge the CBFC’s certification under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, citing misrepresentation, regional vilification, and the risk of communal disharmony.
The case will advance after the scheduled screening, with the Court reviewing the film before deciding on the pending petitions.
