Prithviraj's 'L2: Empuraan' Releases Edited Version After Right-Wing Backlash

Thiruvananthapuram: The Malayalam film industry is grappling with renewed debates over creative freedom as L2: Empuraan, starring Mohanlal, hit theatres in a revised version after the makers opted for 24 'voluntary cuts'. The changes, approved by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), include alterations to certain narrative elements that had drawn criticism from right-wing groups.

The modifications include replacing the specific time period '2002- India' with the vague 'A few years ago' and renaming the antagonist from the politically charged 'Bajrangi' to the neutral 'Baldev.' Four scenes depicting violence against women during communal unrest have been excised, along with all visual and audio references to the National Investigation Agency. The total runtime has been reduced by 128 seconds.

The decision came after the RSS-affiliated Organiser criticised the film's portrayal of historical events, calling it 'divisive'. BJP leaders had also voiced objections, prompting Mohanlal to issue a statement expressing regret if any sentiments were hurt. However, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stood firmly behind the film, watching the original version in theatres and condemning what he called 'attempts to undermine artistic expression.'

The film industry has reacted with concern to these developments. Veteran cinematographer Santosh Sivan remarked, 'When even a Mohanlal film with substantial backing feels compelled to make such extensive changes, it creates a chilling effect for the entire industry.' Despite the controversy, L2: Empuraan continues to perform strongly at the box office, with theaters reporting robust attendance, suggesting that the edits have not significantly dampened audience enthusiasm.

This incident represents the latest chapter in an ongoing debate about the balance between creative expression and political sensitivities in Indian cinema. As audiences flock to theatres, the question remains whether they are experiencing the filmmakers' original vision or a compromised version shaped by external pressures. The Empuraan controversy underscores the increasingly complex landscape for filmmakers addressing historical and political themes in contemporary India.

(Report by Anjali, with PTI inputs)