The Kerala Story 2 director Kamakhya Narayan Singh hits back at Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Bakwas picture... propaganda’ remark
Times of India
by TOI ENTERTAINMENT DESKFebruary 22, 2026
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The Kerala Story 2 director Kamakhya Narayan Singh has strongly refuted Anurag Kashyap's harsh criticism of the film, calling it a "propaganda" and "bullshit" movie. Kashyap's remarks, made during a airport interaction, criticized the film's portrayal of beef and its alleged intent to divide people for profit. In response, Singh released a video statement defending the film as a truthful narrative addressing forced religious conversions through dietary coercion, which he labeled a crime against innocent girls in Indian society. He also accused Kashyap of being mentally weak, targeting him for his past projects and perceived biases.
Singh's rebuttal highlighted the broader debate surrounding free speech and creative expression in India. While Kashyap dismissed the film as a cash grab, Singh framed it as a socially significant work tackling critical issues. The director emphasized that the film's portrayal of consent and coercion was intended to spark meaningful discussion, not spread propaganda. He criticized Kashyap for using labels like "bullshit" and "bootlicker" to shut down dialogue, calling such tactics intellectually dishonest.
The controversy underscores deeper societal tensions in India over religious identity and cultural representation. While some view the film as a bold attempt to address sensitive issues, others see it as an exploitation of communal divides. The debate reflects broader concerns about free speech in India and how artistic works navigate these challenges. As the film faces legal scrutiny over certification and content, its success will hinge on its ability to foster constructive conversations rather than fuel divisions.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026