'Empty theaters': Rahul Gandhi says 'nobody's watching' 'Kerala Story 2'
What's the story
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has spoken against The Kerala Story 2, which has sparked controversy and debate since its release last week. Speaking to students in the Idukki district recently, he said it was "good news" that the movie wasn't being widely watched. "The good news is that The Kerala Story 2 halls seem to be empty, and no one is watching it," he said.
Cultural understanding
Gandhi says movies 'being used precisely to vilify people'
Gandhi added that the film's lack of popularity also indicates that many people understand Kerala's culture. He said, "It shows that the majority of people in this country have an understanding of what Kerala is and its traditions and culture." "But you are absolutely correct, movies, TV, and the media have been weaponized. They are being used precisely to vilify people, to alienate people."
Selective promotion
'Certain narratives can be spread and propagated': Gandhi
Gandhi further said, "Certain narratives can be spread and propagated as much as people want, and nothing happens to them." "This is extremely damaging for the country." He added, "And it is happening a lot. Large amounts of money are being used to drive this in India."
Political backlash
Kerala CM says film 'made with agenda of spreading hatred'
Earlier, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had also criticized the sequel, calling it "made with the agenda of spreading hatred against Kerala." He said, "The release of the second part of The Kerala Story, which was made with the agenda of spreading hatred against Kerala and insulting our secular traditions, should be seen seriously." The film has been widely panned by critics since its release and has earned ₹25.4 crore (net) in India, as per Sacnilk.