Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Chalachitra Academy decided to withdraw six films from screening at the International Film Festival of Kerala following objections raised by the Ministry of External Affairs. The ministry warned of legal action and stated the selected films conflicted with India’s foreign policy and posed national security concerns.
Academy chairman Resul Pookutty said the decision came from the academy without political direction. Speaking to PTI Videos, he said the move aimed to prevent further tension during the festival. He added the Centre had cleared 180 films out of a total list of 186, leaving only a small number under dispute.
Earlier, the Kerala state government had asked the academy to screen all 19 films for which the Union government denied permission. Delay in granting censor exemptions for several films during the festival led to public criticism and protests from sections of the film community.
Pookutty said officials from the ministry communicated strong reservations and warned of legal consequences. He also confirmed receipt of an email from the Kerala Chief Secretary directing strict adherence to instructions issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.
The films removed from the screening list include works linked to Palestine, Israel, Egypt, Indonesia, and India. Titles include All That’s Left of You, an Arabic film portraying a Palestinian family during conflict, and Yes, an Israeli film linked to the 2023 Gaza attacks. Other films addressed political protests, state propaganda, migrant labor struggles, and historical violence.
The decision has renewed debate around artistic freedom, censorship, and the role of foreign policy in cultural platforms. Festival organisers said the remaining schedule continues as planned while authorities monitor compliance with official directives.
