“The Kerala Story,” a 2023 Hindi film delving into the sensitive topic of “Love Jihad,” generated significant controversy even before its theatrical release. Facing opposition and legal challenges, the film ultimately premiered in May and went on to achieve remarkable success.
Earning Rs. 81 crores in its opening week, it stood as the highest-grossing female-oriented film in recent times. Its global box office collection reached Rs. 303 crores, securing the seventh spot among the highest-grossing Hindi films of 2023. This resounding success served as a strong testament to the power of compelling content in captivating audiences, breaking away from the usual trend of star-driven projects delivering underwhelming performances.
While most films tend to migrate to OTT platforms within a month or two of their theatrical release, “The Kerala Story” took considerably longer due to its sensitive subject matter. Finally, excitement is brewing among fans as the movie is poised to premiere on ZEE5 on January 12th. This release will cater to viewers across India through its availability in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam languages.
An official announcement from ZEE5 is expected soon, confirming the exact timing and availability details. Notably, the film stars Adah Sharma in the lead role, supported by Yogita Bihani, Sonia Balani, and Siddhi Idnani. Written and directed by Sudipto Sen, with production credited to Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film has also attracted allegations of association with the ruling political party.
With its controversial subject matter, impressive box office performance, and now its upcoming digital release, “The Kerala Story” continues to spark conversations and engage audiences. Whether its thematic exploration of “Love Jihad” resonates with viewers on ZEE5 will be interesting to observe.
