'Kerala is a secular state, don't misrepresent it', High Court to decide on the future of 'The Kerala Story 2' today

The Kerala High Court on Tuesday stated that "The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond" misrepresents a state like Kerala, where everyone lives in communal harmony.

The court also stated that using the state's name and claiming that the film is based on true facts could incite communal tension in the state. The film is scheduled for release on February 27, 2026. Its release will depend on today's court decision and comments after viewing the film.

During the hearing, a bench headed by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas questioned why only "Kerala" was used in the title if the events depicted in the film pertain to the entire country. The court stated that this could misrepresent the state's image by associating it with terrorism and forced religious conversions.

The court clarified that Kerala is a state where all communities live in complete harmony. Showing it negatively in the film could incite communal sentiments.

The High Court has ordered a special screening of the film to be held today, February 25, 2026, so that the judges can personally assess the content. The film's producers have also agreed to immediately withdraw the controversial teaser.