The Kerala Story 2: Kerala HC clears release; producer Vipul Shah responds after legal relief

In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has cleared the release of The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond, removing the temporary halt imposed earlier. A division bench stayed the single-judge order that had paused the film’s screening for 15 days, allowing theatres to resume shows.

The court observed that objections questioning the film’s certification were raised without viewing the movie in its entirety. It noted that once certification is granted by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), there is a presumption that all statutory guidelines — including those related to public order — have been properly examined.

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Vipul Shah Responds After Court Verdict

Reacting hours after the verdict, producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah thanked the judiciary and welcomed the decision. “Neither our film, nor I, nor anyone in my team is against the state of Kerala or the people of Kerala,” Shah said, adding that Kerala remains a “beautiful and God-loving place.”

He maintained that the film attempts to highlight wrongdoing without targeting any community or region. Expressing confidence in the audience’s judgment, Shah stated that viewers would realise the film does not portray Kerala negatively once they watch it.

‘Goes Beyond’ the State Narrative

Clarifying the intent behind the sequel’s title, Shah explained that the story focuses on criminal elements operating across different states. “This film exposes some criminals… some are from Kerala, some from Madhya Pradesh, some from Rajasthan,” he said, stressing that the narrative extends beyond geographical boundaries.

According to the producer, the film aims to draw attention to issues rather than blame an entire state or its people.

Court’s Observations on Certification

The High Court further noted that several insertions and modifications had already been made as per CBFC directions before certification was granted. Hence, conclusions drawn merely from selected clips could not be sustained.

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The bench also remarked that if any public order concerns arise after release, maintaining law and order remains the responsibility of the state authorities — not grounds to restrict a certified film.

With the stay lifted, The Kerala Story 2 has now begun opening in cinemas, marking the end of a brief but intense legal battle ahead of its theatrical run.