‘The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond’ motion poster released, teaser set for January 30

Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the sequel is being positioned as a more expansive and intense continuation of The Kerala Story (2023), which emerged as one of the year’s most talked-about Hindi films. According to the makers, The Kerala Story 2 aims to address a “bigger and more serious” subject, moving beyond the scope of the first part.

The motion poster features haunting visuals of women’s faces marked by fear, tears and anger. With a sombre tone and unsettling imagery, it suggests a narrative centred on deception, exploitation and the human cost of ideological manipulation. The makers claim the sequel will present harsher realities and explore dimensions that were only touched upon in the earlier film.

Vipul Amrutlal Shah, who also co-wrote the screenplay, said the sequel intends to dig deeper into uncomfortable truths. The first film, which focused on themes of forced conversion and radicalisation, sparked widespread political and social debate across the country. Despite the controversy, it performed strongly at the box office and went on to win National Awards in two categories, further cementing its cultural impact.

The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan Singh. The story and screenplay have been written by Amarnath Jha and Vipul Amrutlal Shah. Ashin A. Shah serves as co-producer, while the music is composed by Manan Shah. Lyricist Manoj Muntashir has penned the film’s songs.

While details of the plot remain under wraps, the motion poster indicates a darker and more disturbing narrative than its predecessor. The makers say the film will focus on broader social issues and examine the consequences of systemic manipulation, aiming to provoke reflection and debate.

Industry observers note that the release strategy mirrors that of the first film, with early promotional material designed to create conversation ahead of the teaser launch. Given the response to the original, expectations are high, and the sequel is likely to face close public and political scrutiny once it releases.

With the teaser slated for release later this month, The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is expected to intensify discussions around its subject matter in the weeks leading up to its theatrical debut.