Mohanlal Issues Apology Amidst Controversy Over L2: Empuraan References to Gujarat Riots

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has issued a formal apology following backlash over certain references in his latest film, L2: Empuraan. The controversy erupted after segments of the film, particularly those related to the 2002 Gujarat riots, sparked political debate and criticism from right-wing factions.

Taking to Facebook, Mohanlal acknowledged the concerns raised by audiences and assured fans that his team had decided to remove contentious elements. “I have come to know that certain political and social themes in Empuraan have caused distress among my beloved fans. We never intended to hurt anyone, and necessary changes will be made,” he wrote.

A sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer, L2: Empuraan found itself at the center of political turbulence, with critics from the Sangh Parivar accusing the film of promoting an anti-Hindu and anti-BJP narrative. The right-wing publication Organiser labeled the movie divisive, while BJP leaders, including Rajeev Chandrasekhar, publicly condemned it, stating that “any film that distorts history is bound to fail.”

In response, the Congress and Left parties slammed the BJP’s stance, accusing them of intolerance toward creative expression. A Congress activist defended the film, asserting that “true patriotism is about courage, not blind conformity.”

As the debate intensified, the film’s production team confirmed that 17 scenes—including riot sequences and portrayals of violence against women—would be edited out. Reports suggest that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ordered these modifications.

Despite the controversy, L2: Empuraan had a spectacular opening, screening 4,500 shows across 746 screens in Kerala alone on its first day. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also watched the film with his family amidst the ongoing debate.

While the film continues to make waves at the box office, its political impact remains a heated topic of discussion.