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Mohanlal issues apology following Empuraan backlash

Prithviraj's political thriller drew right-wing backlash for its take on sensitive event

Entertainment Editor

2 MIN READ

Mohanlal from Empuraan

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has issued a public apology following intense backlash over his latest film L2: Empuraan. The political thriller, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, came under fire from right-wing groups including the RSS and BJP for allegedly depicting sensitive political events in a controversial manner.

In a heartfelt post shared on social media, Mohanlal acknowledged the criticism and expressed regret over the distress caused. He stressed that neither he nor the film intended to offend any political, ideological, or religious group.

“I know that some of the political and social themes that have been introduced in the making of the film Empuraan, the second part of the Lucifer franchise, have caused great distress to many of my loved ones,” he wrote.

Also Read: L2: Empuraan movie review: First day first show in UAE, Mohanlal's action thriller is ambitious but emotionally hollow

“As an artist, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films are hostile to any political movement, ideology, or religious sect. Therefore, the team of Empuraan and I sincerely regret the distress caused… We have decided together to remove such themes from the film.”

The controversy largely stems from the film’s depiction of events resembling the 2002 Gujarat riots. Critics argue that certain scenes misrepresent political groups and could potentially fuel communal unrest. In response, the filmmakers have reportedly approached the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to implement voluntary edits, with around 17 scenes expected to be either modified or removed.

Filmmaker and retired army officer Major Ravi defended Mohanlal, stating the actor had no role in scripting or pre-release decisions and was deeply disturbed by the controversy.

Despite the uproar, L2: Empuraan continues to dominate the box office, having grossed over Rs1 billion worldwide within just two days of its release. The team behind the film is now working to ensure that the updated version addresses the concerns raised while retaining the core narrative.

Several films and shows in India have faced bans or censorship following right-wing backlash.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat was temporarily banned in several states after Rajput groups claimed it distorted historical facts and hurt community sentiments. PK was targeted for questioning religious dogma, with theaters vandalised by fringe groups. The political series Tandav was edited after FIRs were filed over alleged mockery of Hindu deities.