Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], March 31: Amid a growing Right-wing backlash against the Malayalam film Empuraan over alleged references to the 2002 Gujarat riots, Kerala’s Culture Minister Saji Cherian showed his support for the movie, expressing solidarity with the filmmakers.
Cherian praised the director, Prithviraj, for his bravery in making a film that he described as “different” from others released in Kerala. “I would like to appreciate Prithviraj for showing the courage to make a film like this, one that is at par with world cinema. The film addresses many social issues that should be seen by people across the country,” he said, after watching the film.
The Minister further emphasized the film’s message of unity, stating, “An art form should be seen as an art form. The people of Kerala should unite against negative forces. The film reflects the idea that we are all one, and that is what we must embrace. A film like this can only be made in Kerala.” However, he expressed concern over the extreme violence in the film, which could be difficult for some viewers.
In the wake of criticism from Right-wing groups, Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Opposition leader VD Satheesan both expressed their support for the filmmakers. Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar, however, stated that he would never watch the film.
Actor Mohanlal, on Sunday, issued a statement of regret, confirming that “voluntary cuts” would be made to the film. He assured fans that the changes would address concerns of promoting hatred towards any political movement, ideology, or religious group. Mohanlal took full responsibility for the issue.
Pinarayi Vijayan also condemned the hate campaigns targeting the film, stating that the backlash stemmed from its reference to one of India’s most brutal genocides. “These attacks reflect the latest manifestations of fascist attitudes,” he wrote, stressing the need to protect freedom of expression in a democratic society.