The National Award recognition for the film The Kerala Story has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders in Kerala, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan. Both leaders strongly objected to the jury’s decision to honour a film they believe spreads misinformation and promotes communal discord.
Vijayan Accuses Film of Misrepresenting Kerala
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration over the jury’s choice. He said the decision to award The Kerala Story , which won Best Director (Sudipto Sen) and Best Cinematography — gives credibility to a film that distorts the image of Kerala. “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 #NationalFilmAwards has lent legitimacy to a narrative rooted in the divisive ideology of the Sangh Parivar,”
Vijayan wrote on X.
He further emphasized that Kerala is known for communal harmony and called the jury’s decision “an insult not just to Malayalis, but to everyone who upholds democratic and constitutional values.”
VD Satheesan: Award Is Politically Motivated
VD Satheesan, senior Congress leader and Kerala’s Leader of the Opposition, echoed Vijayan’s sentiments. He criticised the award decision, calling it politically driven and aimed at spreading religious hatred. “The film was given an award solely with the intention of promoting religious hatred. This is unacceptable,” Satheesan said. He alleged that the BJP and Sangh Parivar are using platforms like the National Film Awards to push their ideological narratives through art and culture.
Background of the Film and Public Reaction
Released in 2023, The Kerala Story stars Adah Sharma in the lead role and tells the story of women from Kerala being radicalised and recruited by ISIS. The film sparked immediate controversy after its release, with many political and social organisations in Kerala calling it inflammatory and exaggerated.
Critics argue that the film fuels communal tension under the guise of storytelling, while supporters say it brings attention to hidden issues. The backlash included calls for bans and open debates on its intentions and portrayal of facts.
Support for Malayalam Film Artists
Despite their disappointment over the award for The Kerala Story, both Vijayan and Satheesan took time to applaud the Malayalam film winners at the awards ceremony.
Chief Minister Vijayan congratulated Urvashi and Vijayaraghavan, who won the Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor awards, calling their victories a “remarkable moment” for Malayalam cinema. He praised their recognition as a testament to the state’s true artistic spirit.
A Divisive Debate on Cinema and Politics
The controversy has once again sparked debate over the line between art and propaganda, and the responsibility of cultural institutions like the National Awards in a politically charged atmosphere. It raises questions about whether films that promote a specific ideology or narrative should be awarded on a national platform — especially when they provoke strong regional and communal reactions.
