Is L2: Empuraan propaganda? The truth behind the controversy

The release of L2: Empuraan, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer, has triggered an intense political and social debate in India. Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and starring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, the film has faced widespread criticism from right-wing political leaders, conservative groups, and a section of the audience for allegedly distorting historical events. The backlash stems primarily from its depiction of the 2002 Gujarat riots, a topic that remains one of the most politically charged in modern Indian history.

Former Infosys CFO and vocal advocate of conservative causes, Mohandas Pai, was among those who openly criticized the film, accusing it of promoting a “fake narrative.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he condemned Mohanlal for celebrating the film’s commercial success despite the controversy, calling it “a big propaganda film” that should be a source of shame rather than pride. His comments added to the growing wave of criticism, which has extended beyond social media debates into calls for boycotts and even demands for censorship.

How does L2: Empuraan depict the Gujarat riots, and why is it controversial?

At the heart of the controversy is the film’s treatment of the 2002 Gujarat riots, an event that remains a flashpoint in Indian politics. The riots, which followed the burning of a train in Godhra carrying Hindu pilgrims, resulted in large-scale violence, hundreds of deaths, and deep communal divisions. The events have been the subject of multiple investigations, legal proceedings, and political narratives over the years.

Critics of L2: Empuraan argue that the film presents a distorted or one-sided account of these events, portraying them in a manner that aligns with left-leaning ideological perspectives. An article in Organiser, a publication affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), accused the film of spreading an “anti-Hindu and anti-BJP narrative.” It claimed that the filmmakers had deliberately misrepresented historical facts and warned that such portrayals could further deepen existing societal fractures.

Adding to the criticism, Hindu organizations in Kerala alleged that the film not only misrepresented the Gujarat riots but also cast Hindu groups in a negative light. These accusations fueled online campaigns calling for a boycott, with detractors arguing that the film’s narrative was an attempt to vilify a particular political and religious ideology.

What was Mohanlal’s response to the backlash?

As the controversy gained momentum, Mohanlal issued a public apology, acknowledging that the film’s political and social themes had caused distress to many viewers. In a statement shared on Facebook, he expressed regret over any unintended offense caused, reaffirming that his intention as an artist was never to hurt any community, ideology, or political movement. He stressed that cinema should remain a medium for storytelling rather than a tool for division.

The actor also confirmed that he and the L2: Empuraan team had taken the audience’s concerns seriously and had collectively decided to make voluntary revisions to the film. This move was seen as an attempt to de-escalate tensions and address the growing demand for changes in the portrayal of sensitive topics.

What changes are being made to the film following the controversy?

In response to the backlash, the filmmakers have opted for 17 voluntary cuts, altering or removing specific scenes deemed contentious. Among the most notable changes is the decision to mute certain dialogues that referenced the 2002 Gujarat riots. Additionally, the character originally named Baba Bajrangi—whose name drew criticism for its perceived association with real-life figures—has been renamed.

Other modifications include edits to scenes depicting communal violence, which critics had argued were inflammatory. These adjustments were made after discussions with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and other stakeholders. While some supporters of the film saw this as an unnecessary concession to political pressure, others viewed it as a pragmatic move to ensure broader acceptance among audiences.

How has the political landscape reacted to the film’s controversy?

The controversy surrounding L2: Empuraan quickly took on a political dimension, with leaders from various parties weighing in on the debate. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticized the film for what he described as a “distorted and one-sided narrative,” pledging to boycott it. His comments echoed the broader sentiment among right-wing groups, who viewed the film as an attempt to push a politically motivated agenda.

On the other hand, opposition leaders, particularly from the Congress and Left parties, accused the BJP of intolerance. AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal pointed out that the BJP had previously welcomed films like The Accidental Prime Minister and Emergency, which were critical of Congress leadership. He argued that the party’s reaction to L2: Empuraan exposed a double standard in its approach to politically themed cinema.

Kerala’s Education Minister V. Sivankutty also questioned the need for cuts, asserting that historical events such as the Gujarat riots have a rightful place in cinematic storytelling. He suggested that censoring politically sensitive topics undermines creative freedom and limits filmmakers’ ability to engage with real-world issues.

What impact has the controversy had on the film’s box office performance?

Despite the political storm surrounding it, L2: Empuraan has enjoyed a strong commercial run since its release on March 27. Within days, it crossed the ₹100 crore mark, cementing its status as one of the most successful Malayalam films in recent times. The controversy, rather than deterring audiences, appears to have fueled curiosity, drawing more viewers to cinemas.

Industry experts note that political controversies often have a paradoxical effect on films, sometimes boosting their visibility and ticket sales. In the case of L2: Empuraan, the debate surrounding its content has only intensified public interest. However, the film’s long-term success may depend on whether the controversy continues to dominate discussions or if audiences eventually focus on its cinematic merits.

What does this controversy reveal about the intersection of cinema and politics in India?

The L2: Empuraan debate underscores the increasingly complex relationship between cinema and politics in India. In a deeply polarized environment, films that engage with historical or political themes often become lightning rods for ideological battles. While filmmakers argue for creative freedom, political groups and community organizations frequently push back, demanding narratives that align with their perspectives.

In recent years, Indian cinema has witnessed similar controversies, with films like Padmaavat, The Kashmir Files, and Article 15 facing intense scrutiny from different political and religious groups. The L2: Empuraan episode highlights the challenges filmmakers face when tackling real-world events, as well as the fine line between artistic expression and political sensitivity.

For Mohanlal and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the controversy surrounding L2: Empuraan represents both a challenge and an opportunity. While they have had to navigate intense criticism, the film’s commercial success and the broader discussion it has sparked reinforce the powerful role cinema continues to play in shaping public discourse.

The response to L2: Empuraan also raises questions about the future of politically themed storytelling in India. Will filmmakers continue to push boundaries, or will increasing scrutiny lead to self-censorship? As the industry grapples with these issues, the impact of L2: Empuraan will likely be felt long after the immediate controversy fades.