CBFC Grants U/A 16+ Certificate to 'The Kerala Story 2' with Multiple Edits
The upcoming film 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond' has been generating significant headlines due to its controversial content, with several petitions filed seeking a ban on its release. Amidst this ongoing legal and public debate, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has officially granted the movie a U/A 16+ certificate. However, this certification comes with a series of recommended edits, as reported by Bollywood Hungama, just days before the film's scheduled theatrical release on February 27, 2026.
Extensive Revisions and Cuts Mandated by CBFC
According to the report, the CBFC directed the makers of 'The Kerala Story 2' to implement approximately 16 cuts or modifications before approval. These revisions included trimming down visuals, altering dialogues, and adding an extended disclaimer. The most notable changes involved reducing intimate and violent scenes by significant margins.
A source revealed that kissing visuals and rape scenes were cut by 50%, with a specific lip-lock scene trimmed by 7 seconds and rape scenes shortened by 20 seconds. Additionally, the CBFC ordered a reduction of 2 seconds in a scene where a woman is slapped and modified a sequence involving a female character's head being hit. An insider further disclosed that a scene depicting the demolition of an accused's house with a bulldozer was also required to be altered. The board additionally mandated changes in three dialogues and the muting of a word within the film.
Disclaimer and Documentation Requirements Imposed
Beyond the visual and dialogue edits, the CBFC instructed the filmmakers to include a disclaimer stating that 'The Kerala Story 2' is based on true events. This disclaimer must be displayed on screen for an extended duration of 2-3 minutes, accompanied by a voice-over. The makers were also required to submit a full script with dialogues and supporting documents as proof of the story's basis, along with a consent letter for casting a minor in the movie.
After fulfilling these requests and implementing the necessary changes, the CBFC granted the certification on February 16. The final runtime of the film now stands at 131 minutes and 24 seconds, equivalent to 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 24 seconds.
Release Date and Pending Legal Challenges
'The Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond' is set to premiere in theaters on February 27, 2026. However, the legal battle continues, as the Kerala High Court is reportedly scheduled to watch the film before delivering its verdict on the petitions seeking a ban. All eyes are now on the court's decision, which could ultimately determine whether the film releases as planned or faces further delays.
