A major controversy has broken out after The Kerala Story won an award at the 71st National Film Awards. Students from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) have openly criticized the government’s decision. They say this choice supports hate and misinformation rather than true and honest storytelling.
Daily news highlights show that this disagreement is gaining attention nationwide, with many people now questioning the government’s support of certain films.
FTII Students Release Strong Statement
The FTII Students’ Association, led by President Geetanjali Sahu and General Secretary Barsha Dasgupta, issued a powerful statement. They said the award for The Kerala Story is not only disappointing but also dangerous. They believe the film spreads false ideas and divides people based on religion.
- Accusations of Promoting Hate: The students said that the film is not just a movie—it’s a “weapon” used to attack the Muslim community. They called it a story full of lies that could lead to more hate and even violence.
- Cinema as a Tool for Truth: They reminded people that cinema should be about truth and art, not about pushing government-supported hate or propaganda.
- Fear of Future Consequences: The students believe that such actions might encourage more social exclusion and even real-world violence. They say giving awards to such movies is like saying hate is acceptable.
A Threat to Honest Filmmaking
The FTII students expressed worry about their future in the film industry. They fear that honest, creative work is being ignored in favor of biased films. According to them, rewarding films like The Kerala Story means encouraging Islamophobia and fake stories.
- Concerns About Islamophobia: They strongly said, “We will not accept that Islamophobia is now award-worthy.”
- Rejection of Government’s Agenda: They believe that giving awards to such films helps the government spread a certain ideology. They say this changes the purpose of cinema, making it a political tool instead of a form of art.
- Calling for Truth in Art: They said that giving awards to propaganda doesn’t make the message true. They vowed to keep speaking out against hate, lies, and any misuse of art.
About the Film: What is ‘The Kerala Story’?
The Kerala Story tells the story of girls from Kerala who are said to be brainwashed and recruited by ISIS. The filmmakers claimed that the story is based on true events. However, many people in Kerala and across India strongly disagreed with this.
- Legal and Public Backlash: The film led to big protests in Kerala. It was even banned in the state for a while and is still facing legal problems.
- Public Criticism: Many citizens, film experts, and social activists say the film spreads fear and promotes a false image of Kerala, a state known for peace and religious harmony.
A Divisive Award Decision
This Breaking News has triggered a serious debate in the film community and across India. FTII students are standing up for what they believe is right, demanding that awards should go to films that tell the truth and promote unity—not hate.
