Sumit Gahlawat On The Kerala Story 2 Backlash: ‘Don’t Take It So Seriously; We Are A Secular Country’

Actor Sumit Gahlawat has addressed the controversy surrounding The Kerala Story 2, urging audiences not to let cinema disturb social harmony. Gahlawat, who plays Salim in the film, said that movies do not shape society as strongly as upbringing and personal values do.

In a recent interaction, the actor questioned whether a two-hour film could truly overpower the values a person receives at home or in school. Referring to how trends like the hairstyle from Tere Naam once influenced youth, he suggested that if someone’s moral compass is easily shaken, the issue lies deeper than cinema.

Sumit emphasised that strong ‘sanskaar’ and education should help individuals differentiate between right and wrong, regardless of what is portrayed on screen. He shared that even in households where elders may have certain habits, children can still choose a better path for themselves. According to him, cinematic influence ultimately depends on personal interpretation and choice.

Speaking about the growing criticism around the film, he observed that audiences today tend to take things more seriously than before. “If you find something good in a film, take it. If you find something bad, treat it as a lesson of what not to do. But don’t let it affect you to this extent,” he said, encouraging viewers to use cinema for reflection rather than division.

He also stressed that India’s secular fabric should not be weakened by on-screen narratives. “We are a secular country. If we live well, others will live well with us,” he remarked, adding that communal harmony begins with individual conduct in daily life.

The film has sparked debates since its announcement, with producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah also reacting to legal and public responses in recent weeks. Despite the backlash, Sumit concluded that society should not let a handful of divisive voices disrupt peaceful coexistence, advocating instead for calm dialogue and mutual respect.