Priyanka slams ‘Kerala Story 2’ film sequel promoting hate

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated on Friday that while people should be allowed to express themselves, it would be better to focus on creating content that promotes happiness, peace, love, and welfare.

Priyanka Vadra, who represents Wayanad in Kerala and is on a three-day visit to her constituency, was responding to media inquiries about the film “The Kerala Story 2 — Goes Beyond.”

She said, “Firstly, I believe that people should be allowed to express themselves. At the same time, in an environment increasingly filled with rhetoric, anger, and hatred, I feel it is better to create things creatively-things that are joyful and promote peace, love, and the welfare of people.”

“I admire the people of Kerala. I see how beautifully the communities in Wayanad live, how they celebrate festivals together, and how they help each other in times of crisis. It doesn’t matter which religion you belong to or what caste you are from; everyone helps one another,” she added.

On Thursday, the Kerala High Court temporarily halted the release of “The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond” for 15 days after receiving petitions challenging its censor certificate.

Later that evening, the producers approached a two-member division bench seeking to overturn the order, arguing that the delay would result in significant financial losses since its worldwide release was scheduled for Friday.

Justices Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and PV Balakrishnan urgently heard the appeals at 7:30 PM and lifted the ban on Friday evening.

“Even today, this spirit continues. I believe this is the true essence of India; it is the spirit of Kerala. That, I feel, is what makes it so beautiful. Why not showcase it? Why not talk about it? Why can’t the whole country learn from these examples?” Vadra said.

The film, a sequel to the 2023 “Kerala Story,” raises the issue of “love jihad,” alleging that Hindu and Christian women are lured into joining Daesh through marriage.

Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, in his ruling, stated, “The content in the teaser itself, which is acknowledged to be part of the movie, has prima facie potential to distort public perception and disturb communal harmony.”

Vadra noted that she only observed how the people of Wayanad live together harmoniously, celebrate festivals, and support one another during difficult times after she became the MP from Wayanad.