Kerala Film Festival Defies Censorship Hurdles

The Kerala Film Festival proceeds as planned, despite some films being denied clearance by the Centre. Kerala Chalachitra Academy, with support from Kerala's government, upholds freedom of expression by screening all films, including controversial and historic pieces, demonstrating a commitment to cinema.

The ongoing Kerala Film Festival will continue as planned, according to organizers, despite the Centre's refusal to clear some films. The International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), which began last Friday, will run through December 19, said Resul Pookutty, Chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy.

In a video statement, Pookutty expressed his satisfaction in maintaining the schedule amidst controversies, confirming that all films will be screened as per the Kerala government's notification. The decision aligns with the state's stance on defending freedom of expression.

The festival faced delays due to the lack of official censor exemptions for around 15 films, including those addressing the Palestine conflict and Sergei Eisenstein's classic, Battleship Potemkin. Talks with the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting led to exemptions for four out of 19 pending films.

(With inputs from agencies.)