Beyond The Kerala Story Release Date Announced: Vipul A Shah’s Film to Hit Theatres in February 2026

Filmmaker Vipul Amrutlal Shah has officially announced the theatrical release date of his upcoming film Beyond The Kerala Story, a sequel to the widely discussed 2023 film The Kerala Story. The film is scheduled to hit cinemas across India on February 27, 2026, with the makers unveiling a motion poster to mark the announcement.

The release date was revealed through Shah’s production banner Sunshine Pictures Limited, signalling the formal start of promotions for the sequel. While the motion poster does not disclose plot details, it reinforces the film’s intent to continue the thematic direction established in the original, while expanding its scope and narrative depth.

Sequel Expands the Narrative Beyond Kerala

Unlike the first instalment, which focused on events rooted in Kerala, Beyond The Kerala Story is positioned as a broader exploration of real-life incidents from multiple regions across India. According to the makers, the sequel aims to uncover stories that often remain overlooked, bringing forward accounts of victims whose experiences have rarely found space in mainstream discourse.

The production team has stated that the film seeks to move beyond a single geographical focus and instead present a national canvas, drawing attention to narratives that unfold quietly within communities. The emphasis, they say, remains on real people, lived experiences, and uncomfortable truths.

Background of The Kerala Story

Released in 2023, The Kerala Story became one of the most talked-about films of the year, sparking intense public debate and political discussion. Despite the controversy, the film achieved significant commercial success and went on to receive the National Film Award for Best Direction and Best Cinematography, cementing its place in contemporary Hindi cinema.

The reception of the first film played a crucial role in shaping the sequel. With Beyond The Kerala Story, the makers appear intent on scaling up both the narrative ambition and geographical reach, while maintaining the grounded, documentary-style storytelling that defined the original.

Creative Team and Production Details

Beyond The Kerala Story is directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh, who previously won national recognition for his work. The film is co-produced by Aashin A Shah and backed by Sunshine Pictures Limited.

While the cast details have not yet been fully disclosed, the makers have confirmed that the sequel features a new ensemble, aligning with its pan-India narrative. The decision to introduce fresh faces is reportedly driven by the film’s intention to portray diverse regional realities with authenticity.

Focus on Realism and Social Commentary

The producers have emphasised that Beyond The Kerala Story returns to what they describe as the “rawness of real life”. The storytelling approach prioritises realism over dramatization, aiming to spotlight incidents and voices that are often hidden in plain sight.

By grounding the narrative in real events and testimonies, the film seeks to continue conversations initiated by the first instalment, while also pushing audiences to confront difficult social questions.

What Lies Ahead

With its February 2026 release date locked, Beyond The Kerala Story is expected to gradually roll out promotional material in the coming months. Given the legacy of its predecessor, the sequel is likely to attract significant public attention and debate ahead of its theatrical debut.

As anticipation builds, the film positions itself as one of the most closely watched releases of early 2026, particularly for audiences interested in socially driven cinema rooted in real-world narratives.