The recent decision to grant a National Award to The Kerala Story has stirred significant backlash from the student community at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). The FTII Students’ Association issued a strong statement calling the move both “disappointing and dangerous,” citing concerns over the film’s content and the message it sends to the public.
According to the students, awarding a film that has been widely criticized for spreading communal narratives and distorting facts undermines India’s secular and democratic framework. They argue that the National Awards carry immense cultural weight and should be bestowed with responsibility, ensuring the films honored promote unity and inclusivity.
The Kerala Story has faced multiple allegations of communal bias and historical inaccuracy, making its recognition at such a prestigious level highly controversial. The FTII student body fears that decisions like this may suppress dissent and normalize films that foster social division.
In their statement, the students urged for greater transparency and impartiality in the selection process for National Awards. They emphasized the need to support diverse voices and narratives in Indian cinema rather than reward content that risks inflaming tensions.
Their remarks have triggered a wider debate across social media, where several filmmakers, critics, and intellectuals have echoed the sentiment. Many are questioning the credibility and integrity of the awards if films with controversial and polarizing content continue to be honored.
As the conversation around The Kerala Story intensifies, FTII students are demanding accountability—not just for this decision, but for how future awards are determined in an industry that should ideally reflect democratic values and artistic freedom.
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