Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], March 31: The recently released Malayalam film ‘L2: Empuraan’, starring Mohanlal, has sparked political controversy and public debate, drawing reactions from BJP, CPI(M), and Congress leaders.
BJP’s Stand: “A Movie Is Just a Movie”
Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar commented on the film’s backlash but clarified that he has not yet watched Empuraan. While he enjoyed its prequel, Lucifer, he insisted that films should not be over-analyzed.
🗣 Chandrasekhar’s Key Statements:
🔹 “A movie is a movie. People have a right to like or dislike it.”
🔹 “Some disliked it, some liked it—that’s fine. The commercial feedback has already led the producers to edit and submit it for re-censorship.”
🔹 “Given the controversies, I have decided not to watch the movie.”
He also expressed disappointment over Mohanlal being part of such a film but stated that CM Pinarayi Vijayan is free to watch it as many times as he likes.
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s Strong Response
In contrast, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemned what he termed a “hate campaign” against the film, alleging that right-wing groups were offended by its references to historical genocides.
📢 Vijayan’s Key Remarks:
🔹 “The Sangh Parivar is angry because the film references one of the most brutal genocides in history.”
🔹 “This is yet another manifestation of fascist attitudes.”
🔹 “Calls to ban or destroy art are a violation of democratic rights.”
He accused right-wing groups of orchestrating communal hate campaigns against the movie’s cast and crew, warning against increasing coercion in the creative space.
Congress Joins the Debate
Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan also took a stand, accusing right-wing groups of trying to distort history and censor artistic freedom.
📌 Satheesan’s Perspective:
🔹 “Cinema is an artistic expression, and any attempt to suppress it is a sign of radical failure.”
🔹 “The Sangh Parivar wants freedom of expression only when it suits their ideology.”
Commercial Success Despite Backlash
Despite the political uproar, Empuraan has performed exceptionally well at the box office, grossing ₹80 crore worldwide in its opening weekend.
Filmmakers Respond to Controversy
🔹 Empuraan’s production team announced they would be editing certain scenes, including riot sequences and depictions of violence against women, in response to criticism.
🔹 Mohanlal, in a heartfelt statement, acknowledged that some themes in the film had caused distress, assuring that offensive content would be removed.
🔹 “As an artist, I take full responsibility. My films should never promote hatred towards any political movement, ideology, or religious group,” he stated.
Conclusion
With BJP, CPI(M), and Congress locked in a war of words over Empuraan, the controversy reflects deeper political fault lines in Kerala. While the Sangh Parivar sees the film as problematic, the Left and Congress argue for artistic freedom. Meanwhile, Empuraan continues its box office success, proving that political controversy often fuels curiosity and ticket sales.