Release Order Granted
In a significant legal development, a Division Bench of the Kerala High Court has reversed an earlier interim stay, thereby allowing the impending release
of Vipul Amrutlal Shah's film, 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond'. This decision comes after a period of legal contention surrounding the sequel to the controversial 'The Kerala Story'. The film's producer had appealed the single bench's order, which had temporarily halted the release and mandated a review of the screening certificate. The Division Bench's intervention on Friday provided the necessary relief, paving the way for the film to reach audiences as planned after weeks of legal back-and-forth.
Producer's Defense
Following the High Court's decision, producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah addressed the widespread criticism and allegations of negative stereotyping directed at the film. Shah firmly stated that neither he nor his team harbors any animosity towards the state of Kerala or its inhabitants. He described Kerala as a beautiful and God-loving place, and asserted that the film's intent is to highlight and address wrongdoing occurring within it, rather than to cast a shadow over the region itself. Shah pledged that upon watching the film, viewers would realize its focus is on exposing criminal elements, not on discrediting Kerala or its people. He further elaborated that criminals exist across various regions, not exclusively in Kerala, which is why the film's title includes 'Goes Beyond'.
Film's Core Message
Vipul Amrutlal Shah reiterated his assurance that 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond' does not present Kerala in a negative light. He believes that the Kerala court's decision to lift the stay order serves as a powerful testament to the film's authenticity and its lack of malicious intent. Shah expressed profound gratitude to the judges for their consideration. The film, scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, is directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and features a cast including Ulka Gupta, Aditi Bhatia, and Aishwarya Ojha, all contributing to a narrative aimed at shedding light on specific issues without resorting to generalized condemnations.
