Kerala High Court Raises Critical Questions Over Bollywood Film ‘The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond’ Certification
The recent controversy surrounding the highly anticipated Bollywood film ‘The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond’ has taken a significant turn as the Kerala High Court has expressed serious reservations about the certification granted by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The court’s concerns revolve around the potential impact of the film’s portrayal of Kerala, a state renowned for its communal harmony and secular ethos, and whether its content could incite social tensions.
The Court Calls for a Personal Viewing Before Ruling
During a hearing held on Tuesday, Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas indicated that he would personally review the film before passing any final judgment on three petitions seeking a stay on its release and the cancellation of its certification. The hearing underscores the court’s cautious approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding the film’s content firsthand, especially given the sensitive nature of its subject matter.
Justice Thomas remarked, “The CBFC bears a crucial responsibility, particularly when a film portrays a secular state like Kerala through what petitioners describe as a communal lens. Kerala is a land of harmony and religious tolerance; portraying it otherwise could be misleading and potentially dangerous.”
Concerns Over the Portrayal of Kerala and True-Event Claims
The film, which is a sequel to the controversial ‘The Kerala Story’, claims to be inspired by real events. This connection has fueled apprehensions among the petitioners, who argue that such portrayals could distort public perception and incite communal tensions in Kerala. The original film depicted women from Kerala allegedly recruited into ISIS, sparking widespread debate over its factual accuracy and portrayal of the state’s social fabric.
The new installment, ‘Goes Beyond’, continues to explore sensitive themes, with promotional material featuring slogans like “ab sahenge nahin… ladenge” (“We will not tolerate anymore… We will fight”). Critics argue that such messaging, combined with the film’s title explicitly mentioning Kerala, could potentially inflame communal sentiments and disturb public order.
Legal and Regional Implications of the Certification
The petitions challenging the CBFC’s certification cite concerns over misrepresentation, regional vilification, and the risk of communal disharmony. They argue that the film’s promotional content and narrative could serve as a catalyst for social unrest, particularly in a region known for its peaceful coexistence.
Senior Advocate S. Sreekumar, representing the film’s producers, has shown willingness to cooperate with the legal process. He proposed to withhold the current teasers until the court’s decision and offered to facilitate a special screening for the judges. This move indicates a proactive approach to address the court’s concerns and ensure transparency in the review process.
The Role of the Censorship Body and Future Proceedings
The controversy has also attracted attention to the CBFC’s role in film certification, especially under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952. The board’s decision to certify the film has come under scrutiny, with critics alleging that the certification process may not have adequately considered regional sensitivities and the potential for societal impact.
Recent reports suggest that the CBFC has requested modifications, including reducing the visuals related to violence and sensitive scenes such as kisses and depictions of rape by approximately 50%. These cuts aim to make the film less provocative and more aligned with public sensibilities, but they also raise questions about artistic freedom and censorship in Bollywood.
The Significance of the Court’s Upcoming Screening
The court’s decision to view the film before proceeding further demonstrates its intent to base judgments on firsthand evidence rather than assumptions or external opinions. This step is crucial, given the film’s sensitive depiction of regional and social issues and its potential to influence public sentiment.
Once the court reviews ‘Goes Beyond’, it will determine whether the film’s content warrants restrictions, bans, or modifications to prevent possible communal discord. The outcome will set a precedent for how controversial Bollywood films are handled, especially those that touch upon sensitive regional and social themes.
Broader Context: Bollywood’s Role in Addressing Social Issues
Bollywood, as India’s largest film industry, has historically played a dual role—entertaining audiences while also reflecting societal issues. Films that delve into sensitive topics such as communal harmony, terrorism, and regional identity often spark vigorous debates about artistic expression, responsibility, and censorship.
The controversy surrounding ‘The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond’ exemplifies the delicate balance filmmakers and regulatory bodies must maintain. On one hand, cinema is a powerful medium for raising awareness and fostering dialogue; on the other, it can unintentionally sow discord if not carefully handled.
Implications for Future Film Certification Processes in Bollywood
This case highlights the need for a nuanced approach to film certification, especially for movies dealing with complex social narratives. It underscores the importance of involving regional stakeholders, fact-checking, and ensuring that portrayals do not perpetuate stereotypes or incite violence.
Moreover, it raises questions about the extent of artistic freedom in Bollywood and the role of censorship in safeguarding social harmony. As the film industry continues to evolve, balancing creative expression with societal responsibility remains a central challenge.
Conclusion: A Watchful Eye on Bollywood Content
The Kerala High Court’s intervention in the certification process of ‘The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond’ serves as a reminder of the profound influence Bollywood films can have on public perception and social stability. As legal proceedings unfold and the film awaits its formal screening, stakeholders—from filmmakers to regulators—must navigate the complex terrain of free expression and social responsibility carefully.
Ultimately, this controversy underscores the significance of responsible filmmaking and vigilant regulation in maintaining the delicate fabric of India’s diverse society, especially when it comes to Bollywood’s powerful storytelling. The coming days will reveal whether the film will be allowed to release in its current form or whether modifications will be mandated to prevent potential communal tensions.
