The Kerala Story: A Controversial Box Office Success Sudipto Sen's The Kerala Story, a 2023 Hindi-language drama, follows a group of Kerala women allegedly coerced into converting to Islam and joining the Islamic State. Starring Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Sonia Balani, and Siddhi Idnani, the film, produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, generated significant controversy upon its May 5th, 2023 release. Marketing itself as a true story based on the "love jihad" conspiracy theory, the film claims thousands of Hindu women were similarly affected. However, following legal challenges, disclaimers were added clarifying the film's figures as inaccurate and its narrative as fictionalised. Despite overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics who labelled it Islamophobic propaganda, the film achieved considerable commercial success, grossing 303.97 crore worldwide, becoming the ninth-highest-grossing Hindi film of 2023. Its release coincided with the Karnataka assembly elections, with the Bharatiya Janata Party actively promoting the film. The Kerala Story continues to spark debate and protests, particularly in Kerala, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, highlighting its contentious position within Indian society and politics. The film’s financial success, juxtaposed against its critical and legal setbacks, underscores its complex and multifaceted impact.