The Kerala Story has once again sparked strong debate, this time for winning two big honours at the 71st National Film Awards. The film received Best Director for Sudipto Sen and Best Cinematography for Prasantanu Mohapatra, but not everyone is celebrating.
While some are praising the film’s bold storytelling and technical brilliance, others are calling the awards shocking and unfair.
Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan strongly criticized the jury’s decision. He said giving such recognition to The Kerala Story was “an insult to Indian cinema.” He claimed the film spreads false and communal ideas and was made only to defame Kerala.
“This isn’t a film; it’s a political weapon”
The film tells the story of alleged religious conversion and human trafficking of Hindu women in Kerala. Many people, including politicians and critics, have questioned its accuracy and said it promotes hate. It was even banned in some states.
But the National Awards jury stood by their decision. Jury head Ashutosh Gowariker said the film won because of its powerful direction and realistic visuals.
“The director handled a tough subject with clarity, and the camerawork suited the mood of the film perfectly”
However, not everyone on the jury agreed. Member Pradeep Nair admitted he was against the film being awarded, calling it “propaganda.” But most jury members voted in its favour, believing the film tackled an important social issue. Opposition leaders in Kerala also slammed the award. Congress leaders like V.D. Satheesan and K.C. Venugopal said the government was using cinema to spread political messages and divide people.
Despite the controversy, The Kerala Story was a huge box office hit, earning over ₹300 crore worldwide. Director Sudipto Sen and lead actress Adah Sharma have defended the film, saying it tells an important truth.
