13th July 2023,Mumbai: The Kerala Story: Adah Sharma’s Success and the Freedom of Speech Debate
Lead actress Adah Sharma is ecstatic about the success of The Kerala Story, which has become one of the highest grossing films of the year, earning over Rs 241 crores worldwide. With numerous promising projects on the horizon, Adah expresses her excitement to entertain the audience with her future work.
Misconceptions and Freedom of Speech
Despite its massive success, The Kerala Story faced criticism, with some labeling it as propaganda. Adah addresses the controversy, stating that while the film discussed a radicalized group of terrorists, those who watched it understood the message. However, others who refrained from watching maintained their negative opinions. Adah emphasizes the beauty of freedom of speech, acknowledging that she cannot force people to watch the film and appreciating the diverse viewpoints it allows.
Audience Support and Freedom of Speech
Adah finds solace in the fact that the audience supported The Kerala Story, even in the face of famous personalities tweeting against it. She celebrates the freedom of speech that exists in Bharat (India), stating that it allows for a range of opinions and perspectives to coexist.
Breaking Categorization and Addressing Terrorism
Adah dismisses the notion of being categorized within the ongoing debate of right-wing, liberals, and seculars. She explains that The Kerala Story is apolitical, focusing on the lives of four girls who have no political affiliations. Adah believes that Indians stand united against terrorism, as it has no religion. The film portrays the girls’ journey, including falling in love and navigating dangerous situations, devoid of any political agenda.
The Rise of OTT and Space for Excellence
Adah recognizes the transformative impact of over-the-top (OTT) platforms, asserting that they have revolutionized the entertainment industry. She appreciates the opportunities OTT has provided to individuals from all aspects of the industry, enabling them to shine. Adah believes that while mediocrity may persist, the rise of OTT has created a space for excellence, a development that should concern mediocrity.
Public Support and Personal Recognition
Due to budget constraints, the team of The Kerala Story was unable to promote the film extensively. However, Adah expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support received from the public, emphasizing the magical feeling it brings.
Personal Recognition and Silent Appreciation
Adah responds to questions about the lack of public congratulations from big stars or producers on social media. She reveals that many industry professionals messaged her privately, discussing her performance and sharing their appreciation. Adah cherishes these personal interactions, recounting a heartwarming incident where a renowned filmmaker praised her work, a moment she shared with her mother. She believes that people’s silence after watching the movie also holds significance, acknowledging that the film’s dark and intense nature may evoke emotions that lead to quiet contemplation.
Adah Sharma’s success in The Kerala Story highlights the power of cinema and the impact it can have on the audience. Despite facing criticism and misconceptions, the film’s message resonated with those who watched it. Adah’s belief in the freedom of speech and the transformative influence of OTT platforms showcases the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. With her optimistic outlook and gratitude for personal recognition, Adah Sharma continues to shine in the world of Indian cinema.
-by Kashvi Gala