• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

The highly anticipated Mohanlal-starrer 'L2: Empuraan', directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, witnessed a grand opening in theatres on Thursday, grossing Rs 22 crore on its first day and setting a record for any Malayalam film in Kerala. However, the film’s political content has sparked intense debate, with right-wing groups condemning it while the Left and Congress have hailed its portrayal of contemporary politics.

The movie, the second installment in the planned Lucifer trilogy, subtly references the 2002 Gujarat riots and questions the alleged misuse of central investigative agencies. While right-wing groups labelled the film “anti-Hindu” and “propaganda,” the Congress and Kerala’s ruling Left front celebrated it for exposing right-wing politics. 

Congress leader and Kerala Youth Congress president Rahul Mamkoottathil defended the film, calling it a “pan-Indian film” and criticizing the hate campaign against Mohanlal and Prithviraj.

ALSO READ: PM Modi Joins Viral Ghibli Trend, Shares Portraits With Trump And Macron | See Pics

Several right-wing media platforms, including Sanatana Dharma and Hindu Post, accused 'L2: Empuraan' of being a “Hindu-bashing propaganda film” that vilifies Hindus. Despite the criticism from Sangh-affiliated groups, the BJP’s Kerala unit distanced itself from the controversy.

BJP state general secretary P Sudheer stated that the party has no plans to campaign against the film, emphasizing that audiences have the right to form their own opinions. However, the BJP state unit chose to distance itself from the controversy, saying the audience can express their views after watching the film.

"The film will go its way, and party will do its work. The party will not be affected by any film. The Sangh Parivar activists have the right to express their views and let the audience decide whether it is good or bad," he told reporters here.

ALSO READ: RG Kar Rape-Murder Case: No Evidence Of Gang Rape Found, CBI Informs Calcutta HC

While many in the Left celebrated the film’s bold political stance, some Left-leaning media platforms expressed disappointment over what they perceived as the film’s neglect of the Left’s role in shaping Kerala’s political landscape. However, CPI(M) leader Bineesh Kodiyeri praised the filmmakers, stating they “deserve bravery awards” for attempting to depict present-day realities.

Scriptwriter Murali Gopy, regarded as the film’s ‘co-creator’ along with director Prithviraj, dismissed the controversy, saying, “Everyone has the right to interpret the film in their own way.” He refused to engage in the debate, maintaining silence over the allegations.

(With agency inputs)