In a recent development, Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut expressed her disapproval of the ban imposed on the film “The Kerala Story” by certain states, asserting that the film had received clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
During her visit to a temple in Haridwar, Ranaut addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the movie, emphasizing the need to respect the approval granted by the censor board. The film had sparked political debates due to its claim that 32,000 women from Kerala had joined the terrorist group ISIS.
Despite the criticisms, “The Kerala Story” has achieved commercial success, grossing over ₹200 crore at the domestic box office. Ranaut highlighted the importance of such films in addressing societal concerns and catering to the preferences of the audience, asserting that their success contributes positively to the film industry.
The film’s director, Sudipto Sen, faced challenges with its release as the West Bengal government had initially banned it on May 8, citing potential communal tensions. However, the Supreme Court later stayed the ban in West Bengal and directed the filmmakers to provide a disclaimer regarding the unsubstantiated figure mentioned in the film.