In the ever-evolving landscape of Hindi cinema, the year 2023 has witnessed a remarkable phenomenon that demands our attention and admiration. Amidst the glitz and glamour of big-budget releases, Sudipto Sen’s hard-hitting film, The Kerala Story, has emerged as the unsung hero, redefining the parameters of success in the industry. With a budget under Rs 20 crore, the film has grossed over Rs 300 crore at the box office, all while without having screenings in two major states, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, The Kerala Story certainly deserves the spotlight.
The Kerala Story is a testament to the power of storytelling. Its performance at the box office is nothing short of phenomenal, and when compared to its big-budget counterparts, it shines even brighter. While films like Pathaan and Jawan may have garnered attention for their star-studded casts and extravagant production costs, it is The Kerala Story that stands tall in terms of returns at the box office. The ROI achieved by The Kerala Story not only surpasses all other films but also redefines what we consider a box office hit. It emphasises that it’s the quality of storytelling and the connection with the audience that truly matters. It’s a reminder that you don’t need exorbitant budgets to make a film that leaves an indelible mark on the industry.
Beyond its box office triumph, The Kerala Story serves as a poignant reminder of cinema’s power to address critical social issues. The film delves into the harrowing subject of forced religious conversion of Indian women, shedding light on an important problem often overlooked by mainstream cinema. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of a pressing issue. The film serves as an eye-opener, forcing audiences to confront a reality that many may be unaware of. It sparks conversations and raises awareness, demonstrating that cinema can be a powerful tool for social change.
Comparisons between The Kerala Story and the 2022 hit The Kashmir Files are inevitable, given their shared ability to captivate audiences and spark discussion. The Kashmir Files shed light on the genocide and the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus in the 1990s, and its budget of under Rs 25 crore reaped over Rs 340 crore at the box office. The success of The Kerala Story this year can be seen as a parallel to this phenomenon.
Both these undeniable films exemplify how impactful storytelling can transcend budgets and conventional norms of the film industry. They prove that the success of a film is not solely measured by its budget or star-studded casts but by its ability to connect with the audience and tell a compelling story. In an industry where the reach of a film often correlates with its box office success, The Kerala Story has defied the odds and proven that quality content can break barriers.
While much of the industry’s attention is directed towards Pathaan and Jawan, or even Gadar 2, it is really The Kerala Story that deserves the highest praise for its impressive feats. Its ability to resonate with audiences across India, despite facing distribution challenges, showcases the film’s undeniable appeal and the power of word-of-mouth. In a year filled with high-profile releases, The Kerala Story stands as a shining example of cinematic excellence, success, and social relevance. Its remarkable ROI, the emergence of Adah Sharma as a new star, its exploration of crucial social issues, and its parallel to The Kashmir Files all contribute to its undeniable significance.
While many may continue to overlook its remarkable achievements, it is The Kerala Story that truly redefines what it means to be successful in Indian cinema. It demonstrates that a well-crafted story can captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact, regardless of budget constraints or distribution limitations. As we celebrate the triumphs of Indian cinema in 2023, The Kerala Story rightfully claims its place as the biggest success of the year, shining as a beacon of cinematic brilliance and social relevance.
The author is an Indian critic and journalist who has been covering cinema, art and culture for over 10 years. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18’s views.
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