The Kerala Story 2 Faces Slow Ticket Sales and Protests on Release Day
The highly anticipated sequel, The Kerala Story 2, has encountered a challenging start with notably slow ticket sales on its first day of release across theaters in Kerala. This development comes amidst a backdrop of organized protests by activists, adding to the film's turbulent launch.
Sluggish Box Office Performance
Initial reports indicate that ticket sales for The Kerala Story 2 have been underwhelming on its opening day, with many theaters reporting lower-than-expected occupancy rates. Industry analysts suggest that this slow start could be attributed to a combination of factors, including the controversial nature of the film's predecessor and the ongoing protests that have created an atmosphere of uncertainty among potential viewers.
DYFI Activists Stage Widespread Protests
Simultaneously, activists from the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) have staged coordinated protests outside multiple theaters screening the film in various parts of Kerala. The protesters have been vocal in their opposition, stating unequivocally that they will not allow people to watch the movie. Their primary grievance centers on the allegation that the film depicts Kerala in a bad light, potentially tarnishing the state's image and promoting negative stereotypes.
The protests have involved demonstrations, slogan-shouting, and attempts to dissuade moviegoers from entering theaters. This has led to heightened security measures at several venues, with local authorities deploying personnel to maintain order and ensure the safety of both patrons and theater staff.
Allegations of Misrepresentation
The core of the controversy lies in the activists' claim that The Kerala Story 2 presents a distorted and unfavorable portrayal of Kerala. While specific details of the film's content have not been fully disclosed by the protesters, their stance reflects broader concerns about cinematic representations of regional identities and the potential impact on public perception.
This is not the first time a film in Kerala has faced such opposition; the original The Kerala Story also sparked debates about artistic freedom versus social responsibility. The sequel's release has reignited these discussions, with supporters of the film arguing for creative expression and critics emphasizing the need for sensitive and accurate depictions.
Impact on the Film Industry
The combined effect of slow ticket sales and protests raises questions about the financial and cultural repercussions for the Malayalam film industry. Producers and distributors are closely monitoring the situation, as the film's performance could influence future projects with similar thematic elements. Additionally, the protests highlight the ongoing tension between filmmakers and activist groups over narrative control and representation in cinema.
As of February 28, 2026, the situation remains fluid, with theater owners and film officials assessing the long-term implications. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether The Kerala Story 2 can overcome its rocky start and find an audience, or if the protests will significantly dampen its commercial prospects.
This report is based on information available as of 08:30 IST on February 28, 2026, and will be updated as new developments emerge.
