Producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah has struck a firm yet reflective tone in responding to a wave of criticism facing the forthcoming Hindi film ‘The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond’, which is scheduled to hit cinemas across India on February 27, 2026.

Amid sustained commentary from political figures, filmmakers, cultural commentators and social media audiences, Shah described the backlash as “very sad” while reaffirming his conviction in the film’s core message.

In conversations with media outlets this week, Shah sought to recalibrate the narrative around the project, emphasising that the film is not crafted “against Kerala” nor intended to demonise the people or cultural identity of the state. Instead, he said, the film aims to shed light on experiences that he believes have been overlooked or dismissed in mainstream discourse.

“Humne koi sacha kahe ya jhootha kahe, usse humein koi farq nahi padta,” Shah explained, addressing the ongoing debate over the film’s factual grounding. “Lekin jinhone in situations ko bhugta hai, jinki zindagiyan barbaad hui hain, ya jinke family members ki zindagiyan barbaad hui hain, unki zindagiyon mein bahut bada asar padta hai jab is narrative ko jhootha kaha jata hai.”

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His comments underscore the producer’s argument that dismissing the stories portrayed in the film could inflict further harm on those who see their struggles reflected on screen.

‘The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond’ serves as a follow-up to the 2023 release ‘The Kerala Story’, which itself sparked significant debate around its depiction of radicalisation and social issues.

The original film’s use of certain statistics and narrative choices was challenged by critics at the time, prompting broader discussions about accuracy and representation in cinema.

Shah acknowledged that the team anticipated controversy but expressed surprise at the intensity of opposition and the groups he perceives as aligning in support of those he called “criminals”. “Humein hairani yeh hoti hai ki jab hum aisi film banate hain, aisa vishay rakhte hain.

Aur aisi kahaniyan sunne ke baad bhi ek lobby un criminals ke saath khadi nazar aati hai,” he said. “Bahut dukh hota hai, kyunki sawaal sirf ek film ka nahi hai, sawaal humare samaaj ka hai, humare desh ka hai, aur humare desh ki betiyon ka hai.”

The promotional trailer for the sequel, which includes scenes some viewers have described as provocative, has ignited debate across social media, with hashtags and online campaigns both supporting and critiquing the film.

Critics have voiced concerns that the film might reinforce divisive narratives or heighten communal tensions, particularly given its release timing in the run-up to key elections in several Indian states.

Political leaders from a range of parties have weighed in, questioning whether the film’s portrayal of sensitive social issues is responsible or helpful to the broader conversation on communal harmony. Filmmakers and cultural figures have also added their voices, highlighting the challenge of balancing creative expression with the potential impact on diverse audiences.

Supporters of the film argue that it opens necessary dialogues and gives voice to experiences that are often marginalised.

With its theatrical release imminent, ‘The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond’ stands poised to be one of Bollywood’s most discussed and contested projects of early 2026, a film whose reception may reverberate far beyond the box office.