- By Sukanya Saha
- Fri, 19 May 2023 04:27 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Addressing the controversy surrounding The Kerala Story, actress Sonia Balani, known for her portrayal of a negative character in the film, clarifies that the intention of the movie was not to offend anyone's sentiments. According to Balani, the film was made to depict the true story of the girls involved, with her character, Asifa, being a Muslim girl influencing her roommates to convert to Islam.
The actor further emphasises that extensive research and real-life accounts spanning several years compelled them to bring the story to the screen. The director, Sudipto Sen, had been studying this subject for seven years and shared pictures and videos with the cast. The emotional impact of the script led the actor to feel deeply connected to the project. However, the team did not anticipate the overwhelming response that the film received.
"Sudipto sir has been researching this topic for seven years now. He showed us some pictures and videos and I instantly felt like doing it because it’s such a sad story and it affected me when I read the script," she said adding that no one from the film's team "expected this kind of response."
Balani reflected on her shock and disbelief upon realising that for some people, leaving home to pursue education could potentially lead them into joining a dangerous terrorist organisation. "I was numb when I heard the script. When I read it, I thought that it's a true story of those girls and for a bigger cause. Even if one girl is saved from getting brainwashed, that serves the purpose," she said.
The movie, centred around the journey of three young women who are radicalised and coerced into joining ISIS, has generated mixed responses and accusations of promoting hateful rhetoric.
"It is nowhere against any community or religion. That was never the intention. If people perceive it as just a true story about what those girls went through, then their sentiments might not get hurt. There are no comments on any religion, but only ISIS and terrorism," Balani said.
Talking about the nasty comments she has been receiving, Balani said, "I have been receiving abusive messages because I have said many strong lines in the movie about all the Gods. I know there is a section which is not happy, but if they realise that it’s a true story and the motive is only to create awareness of those terrorist groups, then I hope that they can feel positive about it. I am trying to focus on the positive side, instead of the trolling and bans. From the tea seller to every vendor, everyone is supporting the film so much," the actor disclosed.
Balani's family's response to the film was also mixed. According to her, her immediate family was supportive and happy with her performance, recognising it as a portrayal of a character. They acknowledged her growth as an actor and appreciated her dedication to the role, understanding that it was just a character she played. However, her extended family had concerns about certain lines in the film and expressed their desire for the audience not to misinterpret them.
Lastly, discussing the calls for banning The Kerala Story, Balani emphasised the importance of freedom of speech. She believes that while everything has its own advantages and disadvantages, imposing a ban is not the solution.
The fact that the movie is performing well demonstrates that content-driven films are being appreciated by the audience, even in the absence of major superstar actors. "As the movie is doing well, it shows that content-driven films are being liked by the audience, even if there are no huge superstars in it," she said.