Kerala Chief Minister Denounces 'Kerala Story 2' as Communal Hate Campaign
In a stern statement issued from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has declared that the second installment of the film 'The Kerala Story' must be viewed with utmost seriousness, as it is produced with the explicit aim of sowing hatred against Kerala and insulting the state's long-standing secular traditions. The CM emphasized that this new release continues a dangerous trend of anti-Kerala propaganda.
State's Firm Rejection of Distorted Narratives
CM Vijayan recalled that Kerala had already recognized the first part of the film as being filled with blatant lies, hatred, and communal agenda-driven content. "We rejected that distorted creation, which donned the mantle of 'art', by proclaiming the truth of 'The Real Kerala Story'," he stated. The Chief Minister asserted that those behind these continuous hate campaigns are individuals and groups who fear the model Kerala sets by upholding brotherhood and secularism in society.
He specifically pointed out that it was Sangh Parivar centres that took up and propagated the ridiculous, fake narrative of 'The Kerala Story'. "They are the ones who give a communal tint to even consensual marriages, labelling them as forced conversions and spreading misinformation widely," Vijayan added, highlighting what he sees as a systematic effort to malign the state.
Warning Against Forces Poisoning Peace
The CM described these forces as attempting to poison the peace of Kerala's land, labeling them enemies of society. He expressed astonishment at how such "poisonous creations" receive permission for screening, questioning the mechanisms that allow hate-filled content to reach audiences. "We must unitedly reject these attempts to portray Kerala as a centre of terrorism," Vijayan urged, calling for collective action against what he perceives as false portrayals.
He stressed that it is the responsibility of every citizen to prove that Kerala's secular foundation will not be shattered by fake propaganda. The Chief Minister's comments come amid growing concerns about the impact of such films on social harmony and the state's image.
Background on the Controversial Film Series
Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh, the teaser for 'Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond' was released recently, sparking renewed controversy. The first film, 'The Kerala Story', despite winning awards for Best Direction and Best Cinematography at the 71st National Film Awards, has been mired in controversy since its release, with critics accusing it of promoting Islamophobic narratives and distorting facts about Kerala's social fabric.
The Kerala government has consistently opposed the film's narrative, promoting alternative initiatives to showcase what it calls the "real" story of Kerala's secular and progressive values. This ongoing conflict highlights deeper political and ideological divides regarding representation and truth in media.
