“Watch the Film First”: Kerala Story Director Responds to Pinarayi Vijayan’s Criticism of National Award Win

New Delhi Chronicle Staff Reporter

New Delhi: Filmmaker Sudipto Sen has responded sharply to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s criticism of The Kerala Story bagging two National Film Awards. Urging the CM to watch the film before commenting, Sen also highlighted what he sees as a contradiction in Vijayan’s past political stance.

Pinarayi Vijayan’s Criticism of ‘The Kerala Story’

Earlier this week, CM Pinarayi Vijayan slammed the National Award win for The Kerala Story, calling it “a film that spreads misinformation with the intent to tarnish Kerala’s image and incite communal discord.” His remarks sparked heated debate across political and cultural circles.

Sudipto Sen’s Counter: “Has He Even Seen the Film?”

In response, director Sudipto Sen questioned whether the Chief Minister had actually watched the movie.

“I have a mixed reaction. I doubt he has seen it. He is a respected and senior politician, and I would sincerely request him to watch the film before passing judgment,” Sen told the media.

Sen further pointed out that 15 years ago, Pinarayi Vijayan himself supported former Kerala CM VS Achuthanandan’s strong remarks about the Popular Front of India (PFI).

“When Achuthanandan held a press conference in Delhi warning about PFI’s activities and the risk of Kerala turning into an Islamic state, Mr. Vijayan, then a senior leader in the party, supported him wholeheartedly. That video is still available online,” Sen added.

“Which Version of Pinarayi Vijayan Should I Believe?”

Sen highlighted what he described as a stark contrast between Vijayan’s past statements and his present criticism.

“What he said then and what he is saying now are completely opposite. Which Pinarayi Vijayan should I trust?” he asked.

Despite the controversy, Sen emphasized that he is not a politician and prefers to focus on filmmaking rather than political disputes.

Defending ‘The Kerala Story’

Sen reiterated that The Kerala Story underwent a rigorous review process by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC):

“The censor board examined every line of dialogue over two months before clearing the film. I stand by every frame and every word. Anyone is free to challenge it scene by scene.”

Focusing on the Positives

While criticism from the Kerala CM has made headlines, Sen says he is choosing to focus on the overwhelming support and congratulations he has received for the film’s success.

“For every critic, there are hundreds of well-wishers congratulating me. Right now, I am reading the congratulatory messages first,” he said.

About ‘The Kerala Story’

The Kerala Story won Best Direction and Best Cinematography at the 71st National Film Awards. The film follows the story of a group of women from Kerala who are manipulated into converting to Islam, subjected to exploitation, and ultimately forced to join ISIS.

Initially, the movie faced backlash for promotional claims that “thousands of Hindu women” were converted, leading to a legal battle. The filmmakers later added disclaimers clarifying that the movie is a “fictionalized depiction of events” and that the figures were not factual.