Controversy erupts over alleged misrepresentation of Ayurveda in Vaazha 2

Thiruvananthapuram: The Malayalam film Vaazha II: Biopic of a Billion Bros, released on April 2, has sparked controversy following objections from Ayurveda practitioners over a scene they claim misrepresents traditional medicine. 

Directed by Mr. Savin S.A. and written by Mr. Vipin Das, it is a major Malayalam comedy-drama hit that follows four friends navigating adolescence, peer pressure, and personal mistakes. The coming-of-age film blends humor with realistic storytelling, earning praise for its relatable and grounded narrative. Made on a Rs 10 crore budget, the film has grossed over Rs 205 crore worldwide, becoming one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of 2026. Featuring fresh faces and a cameo by Alphonse Puthren, it explores themes of friendship, growth, and societal expectations, resonating strongly with both youth and family audiences.

The controversy arises from a particular sequence that has drawn criticism for linking a medical condition to the consumption of Arishtam, a traditional Ayurvedic fermented liquid in Ayurveda made by boiling herbs and fermenting them with jaggery or honey, producing natural alcohol that aids preservation and absorption. It is commonly used for digestion, immunity, and conditions like fever or respiratory issues, with examples such as Dasamoolarishtam and Balarishtam.

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The concern was raised by the Ayurveda Medical Association of India (AMAI), which claims that the depiction could mislead audiences and create misconceptions about established Ayurvedic practices, reports News18. According to reports, the association believes the scene inaccurately portrays the use and effects of arishtam, potentially undermining public trust in Ayurveda. As a result, AMAI has indicated that it is planning legal action against the filmmakers. So far, there has been no official response from the film’s creators regarding the issue.

Despite the controversy, the film’s commercial success remains unaffected. Vaazha II has reportedly earned approximately Rs 99.35 crore in India and crossed Rs 191 crore globally. It also surpassed the Rs100 crore mark in Kerala within 15 days, outperforming several recent Malayalam releases in reaching this milestone.

The film brings together a blend of rising social media personalities and well-known actors such as Bijju Kutten, Alphonse Puthren, Aju Varghese, Vijay Babu, and Sudheesh. Following its success, the makers have announced a third instalment, Vaazha 3. The upcoming film is expected to center on female characters and is being described as a “biopic of one billion girls,” with Vishnu Sreejith attached as the director.

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