Mumbai, Mar 07 : The recently released film The Kerala Story 2 has reignited political debate, with Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticising the movie and alleging that cinema is increasingly being used to create divisions in society.
The sequel, which opened in theatres last week after facing legal challenges and widespread public discussion over its theme, has reportedly earned about Rs 25.4 crore in its first week. The film follows the 2023 release The Kerala Story, which became one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of that year despite sparking controversy.
During a recent interaction with students, Gandhi was asked whether films are being used as political propaganda to influence public opinion. Responding to the question, he claimed that the latest instalment was not drawing large audiences.
“The good news is that the halls screening The Kerala Story 2 seem to be empty and hardly anyone is watching it,” he said, adding that most people in the country understand Kerala’s culture and traditions.
Gandhi further argued that media platforms, including cinema and television, are increasingly being used to target communities and deepen social divisions. According to him, such narratives are promoted to benefit certain groups while harming others.
He also alleged that individuals who attempt to present alternative viewpoints often face criticism or restrictions, while some narratives continue to be widely propagated without challenge. Gandhi said the growing influence of money in shaping public discourse through media and entertainment is harmful to the country.
The film has also drawn criticism from other political leaders. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor earlier described the project as promoting hate. Meanwhile, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed concern over the sequel, saying it was made with an agenda that undermines Kerala’s secular traditions and promotes hostility toward the state.
The controversy surrounding the film continues to spark debate over the role of cinema in shaping political narratives and public perception in India.