Mohanlal Issues Apology Amid RSS, BJP Criticism of 'Empuraan'

Synopsis

Mohanlal has publicly apologized after receiving backlash from RSS and BJP supporters over scenes in his film 'Empuraan'. He expressed regret for the emotional distress caused and announced the removal of contentious content. The film faced criticism for its portrayal of political themes, specifically referencing the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Key Takeaways

Mohanlal acknowledges the backlash from RSS and BJP.
He expresses regret for the emotional impact on fans.
Controversial scenes will be cut from 'Empuraan'.
The film's political themes have drawn significant criticism.
17 cuts will be made during the recensoring process.

Thiruvananthapuram, March 30 (NationPress) The renowned Malayalam actor Mohanlal has apologized in response to significant backlash from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters regarding specific scenes in his recent film 'Empuraan'.

He took to Facebook to convey his remorse over the "emotional distress" that the film has caused and confirmed that the controversial scenes will be omitted.

In his post, Mohanlal stated, "I recognize that certain socio-political elements included in the creation of 'Empuraan', the sequel to 'Lucifer', have led to considerable mental anguish among some of my cherished fans. As an artist, I feel it is my obligation to ensure that none of my films promote animosity towards any political movement, ideology, or religious community."

He further remarked, "The 'Empuraan' team and I genuinely regret the distress caused to our esteemed viewers. We take collective responsibility and have chosen to eliminate the objectionable material from the film."

The criticism from the Sangh Parivar emerged shortly after the film's premiere on Friday, targeting scenes that allegedly reference the 2002 Gujarat riots.

BJP Kerala President and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar publicly declared that he would abstain from watching the film, accusing it of misrepresenting facts.

RSS national figures, including J. Nandakumar and A. Jayakumar, also expressed their disapproval on social media.

Numerous RSS-affiliated online accounts in Kerala echoed this sentiment, criticizing the film's political messaging.

Directed by actor-filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran, 'Empuraan' is a follow-up to the 2019 hit 'Lucifer'.

Despite a robust box office debut, 'Empuraan' swiftly faced controversy over its depiction of central agencies like the National Intelligence Agency, the Intelligence Bureau, and the Enforcement Directorate, which were portrayed negatively.

Sources close to the film's production revealed that these scenes will also be cut during the recensoring process.

RSS supporters have accused the regional board of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) of negligence for approving the film without adequate review.

Further details indicate that 17 cuts will be made to the film, and the name of the main character, 'Bhajarangi', will either be muted or eliminated entirely.

In conclusion, Mohanlal expressed, "For the past four decades, I have lived my film career as one of you. Your love and belief are my strength. I am convinced Mohanlal cannot exist without that."