Producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah has firmly addressed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s criticisms regarding The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond, noting that Kashyap has yet to respond to the film team’s counter-arguments. The sequel has stirred up controversy since its announcement, with Kashyap labeling it as ‘propaganda’ and calling it a divisive project. During a recent press interaction, Shah commented, ‘When asked if he believed the film was propaganda, Kashyap replied, ‘Absolutely.’’ He went on to challenge the validity of the criticisms aimed at his film.
In defense of his project, Shah pointed out, ‘My director raised a pertinent issue regarding Anurag. He created The Girl in Yellow Boots, which depicts an inappropriate relationship between a father and daughter. Can we really take his views seriously on this matter?’ He expressed hope for a follow-up from Kashyap, saying, ‘We are waiting for his response in the coming days.’
Shah also rejected accusations that The Kerala Story 2 seeks to tarnish the image of Kerala or its people. He emphasized that the film addresses criminal activities and broader societal issues rather than targeting any specific community. ‘On Twitter, we see support for the film from across India, while the dissent comes primarily from Kerala. Critics argue that our portrayal is false, but these are real issues that are widely discussed,’ he stated.
Reflecting on the ongoing controversy, Shah remarked, ‘Neither our film, nor I, nor anyone on my team harbors any animosity toward the state of Kerala or its residents. Kerala is a beautiful place, a God-fearing state, but if there are wrongdoings occurring in this God-loving land, it is our responsibility to highlight them and seek change.’
This exchange underscores the significant divide within the film industry concerning politically and socially charged topics. Supporters of The Kerala Story 2 argue that it exposes uncomfortable truths, while critics claim it fuels divisive narratives. As this public debate continues, Shah’s comments indicate that the controversy surrounding The Kerala Story 2 remains unresolved. Currently, Kashyap has not issued a new statement in response to Shah’s latest remarks.