The Kerala Story: Kerala High Court refuses to stay release of the controversial film

Controversies have been surrounding the film 'The Kerala Story' which stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani. The trailer of the film was met with massive backlash on social media for allegedly spreading hate propaganda against the state of Kerala. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan slammed the makers for the same reason. The film depicts a group of women from Kerala joining the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Several petitions were filed seeking to restrain the release and exploitation of the film, alleging that it is false and misleading, and could hurt religious sentiments and spread hatred between communities in India.

However, today, the Kerala High Court refused to issue a stay order on the release of the film. The court refused to grant any relief against the filmmakers and the film, after observing that the film carries an appropriate disclaimer and is certified by CBFC to be fit for public exhibition. The court further noted that there is no allegation against Islam and there is nothing offensive to any particular community as a whole. The Division Bench of the court watched the teaser and trailer of the film and concluded that it does not equate to hate speech.

Representing the producers of the film, Vipul Shah and Sunshine Pictures Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Ameet Naik, Managing Partner of Naik, Naik and Company opposed the grant of any reliefs against the release and exploitation of the film. He pointed out that the film is a work of fiction and does not claim historical and factual accuracy. Moreover, CBFC found the film to be in conformity with the Guidelines and fit for public exhibition.

After being surrounded by controversy, 'The Kerala Story' has been finally released worldwide today. The film has received immense support on social media, with netizens praising Adah Sharma's solid performance.