Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly criticised the Central government following the recognition of the controversial film The Kerala Story at the 71st National Film Awards. The film, which won Best Director and Best Cinematography, has drawn sharp backlash from the state’s leadership, which claims it maligns Kerala’s image.
In a pointed post on social media platform X, Mr Vijayan accused the Centre of endorsing a film that, according to him, spreads misinformation and promotes a divisive narrative.
“By honouring a film that spreads blatant misinformation with the clear intent of tarnishing Kerala's image and sowing seeds of communal hatred, the jury of the National Film Awards has lent legitimacy to a narrative rooted in the divisive ideology of the Sangh Parivar,” he wrote.
The Chief Minister said that Kerala—a state known for communal harmony and resistance to divisive forces—had been "gravely insulted" by the decision. He appealed to all citizens who uphold democratic and constitutional values to speak out against what he described as a distortion of truth.
Backing the Chief Minister, Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty echoed the concerns. “It is regrettable that an award is given to a film filled with baseless allegations and hate propaganda. This is not an honour for art, but a recognition of attempts to divide society,” he said.
Directed by Sudipto Sen and released in 2023, The Kerala Story stars Adah Sharma and revolves around the alleged radicalisation and conversion of women in Kerala to join ISIS. The film sparked intense political debate at the time of its release, with supporters praising it as an eye-opener and critics denouncing it as propaganda.
The film’s recognition at the national level comes as the BJP continues its efforts to make electoral inroads in Kerala, where the Left Democratic Front has maintained political dominance.