The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond shows no signs of slowing down. Even before its theatrical release, the film sparked controversy, with petitions reportedly seeking a ban. Despite the uproar, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has cleared the sequel for release.

What caught the industry’s attention, however, was the certification itself. The film received a U/A 16+ rating, a decision that surprised many trade watchers. Given the film’s intense and sensitive subject matter, several expected an adults-only certificate. Instead, the CBFC’s verdict triggered fresh conversations online.

The sequel, scheduled to release on February 27, has already generated strong reactions on social media. Its trailer and promotional content stirred debate due to the themes it explores. As a result, the certification decision quickly became a talking point online.

The Kerala Story 2 Cleared By CBFC After16 Cuts

While granting approval, the CBFC instructed the makers to carry out 16 cuts and modifications. Multiple visual sequences were reduced to meet certification guidelines.

According to censor details, kissing visuals were reduced by 50%. A lip-lock scene was shortened by seven seconds. Similarly, rape scene visuals were also reduced by 50%, resulting in a cut of 20 seconds.

In addition, two scenes depicting violence were trimmed:

• A scene showing a woman being slapped was reduced by two seconds
  
• A scene showing a woman’s head being hit was reduced by two seconds
  

Another sequence reportedly featuring the demolition of the accused’s house using a bulldozer was asked to be modified. However, the specific change has not been publicly disclosed.

The CBFC also directed the filmmakers to revise three dialogues at different points in the film. Furthermore, one word was muted, though no additional information appears in the cut list.

Beyond scene edits, the board required the inclusion of a disclaimer stating that the film is based on true events. The duration of this static text was increased by two minutes and three seconds, accompanied by a voice-over.

Additionally, the makers were asked to submit:

• The final script and dialogue sheets
  
• Supporting documents validating the “true events” depicted
  

Importantly, a consent letter was submitted for casting a minor artist, ensuring compliance with regulations involving underage performers.

After implementing these changes, the film received its censor certificate on February 16.

Final Runtime And Film Overview

As per the censor certificate, The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond has an approved runtime of 131.24 minutes. In simpler terms, the film runs for 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 24 seconds.

Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the sequel expands its narrative beyond Kerala. Reports suggest the story spans multiple states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala.

The film follows three parallel storylines centred on young Hindu women, portrayed by Ulka Gupta, Aditi Bhatia and Aishwarya Ojha. The plot explores themes of religious coercion and emotional manipulation emerging from interfaith relationships. The project also marks a key career moment for Yeh Hain Mohabbatein fame Aditi Bhatia, who makes her big-screen debut with the film. 

Although the official production budget has not been confirmed, industry estimates suggest the sequel is mounted on a significantly larger scale than its predecessor. With certification secured and modifications completed, The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is ready for release. Now, it will be interesting to see how audiences respond once the film hits theatres.