The makers of the controversial film 'The Kerala Story' have sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lift the ban on the movie in several Gulf nations. This appeal comes directly from a film body in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has formally written to the Indian Prime Minister.
UAE Film Council's Direct Appeal to Indian Leadership
The National Media Council in the UAE, a key regulatory body for films and media, has taken the unusual step of reaching out to PM Modi. In their communication, the council has requested his assistance in revoking the prohibition on the Hindi film across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The film, which portrays the story of women from Kerala being recruited by the terrorist group ISIS, has been barred from screening in nations including the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman.
Director Sudipto Sen confirmed this development, stating that the appeal underscores the film's significant message. He emphasized that the UAE authorities themselves recognize the importance of the film's narrative and believe it should be accessible to audiences in the region.
Global Recognition and Controversial Narrative
'The Kerala Story,' starring Adah Sharma, ignited fierce debates upon its release in India in May 2023. While it performed remarkably well at the domestic box office, its content led to bans in multiple Middle Eastern countries. The film's plot, which claims to be based on true events, suggests that thousands of women from Kerala were converted to Islam and forced into joining ISIS.
This narrative has been challenged by fact-checkers and political groups in Kerala, who accuse the film of promoting propaganda and harming social harmony. Despite the controversy, the film's team has maintained that it is a work meant to expose a dangerous reality.
Implications and the Road Ahead
The direct appeal from the UAE's film council to the Indian Prime Minister sets a notable precedent. It highlights how content originating from India can create diplomatic and cultural ripples internationally. The move indicates that certain foreign bodies see value in the film's thematic elements, enough to bypass standard channels and seek high-level intervention.
As of now, the Indian government has not issued an official public response to the UAE council's letter. The outcome of this appeal remains uncertain. If successful, it could lead to the film being screened in Gulf nations, potentially reigniting discussions on its themes in a new international context. If unsuccessful, the bans will stay, confining the film's reach and impact to its current markets.
This situation continues to keep 'The Kerala Story' in the headlines, transforming it from a cinematic release into an ongoing point of cultural and political discourse between India and the Gulf region.
