The much-anticipated Mohanlal-starrer Empuraan, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, has become the focal point of a major political controversy, with the Congress party alleging that the film exposes what they term as the “Sangh agenda.” The debate erupted following the film’s depiction of politically sensitive themes, including an indirect portrayal of the Gujarat riots and the alleged misuse of central investigative agencies by the ruling government. The controversy has further intensified discussions on the intersection of cinema and politics in India, with both supporters and critics weighing in on the film’s message and its potential impact on public perception.
A key point of contention is the film’s backstory of the character Zayed Masood, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran. In Empuraan, Masood’s past is traced to the horrific communal violence in Gujarat, where several Muslim families, including his own, are brutally killed by Hindutva activists. The depiction of these events has led to strong reactions, particularly from political parties in Kerala. The Congress party has claimed that the film serves as a bold indictment of the current political climate, particularly in relation to religious and ideological divisions in the country. The Kerala Congress’s social media handle explicitly stated that the movie lays bare the alleged long-term plan of right-wing forces to divide Kerala and gain control over its strategically significant coastline and ports.
However, VT Balram, the social media in-charge of Kerala Congress, appeared more cautious in his remarks. He admitted that he had not yet watched Empuraan, stating, “I don’t know what it’s like. But I think some people have not liked it.” His statement indicates the mixed reactions within Congress itself, with some leaders taking a more direct stand against the film’s alleged political undertones, while others remain neutral.
Palakkad Congress MLA Rahul Mamkoothathil took a more vocal stance, drawing parallels between Empuraan and the 2023 film The Kerala Story, which had faced its own share of controversies over its portrayal of alleged radicalization in Kerala. In a passionate Facebook post, Mamkoothathil criticized what he termed the “hatred factory of Sangh Parivar” and praised Empuraan for shedding light on critical socio-political issues. He emphasized that, beyond its political messaging, the film also stands out for its sheer technical brilliance, high-quality production, and the exceptional performances delivered by its cast.
Notably, Empuraan has also received praise from members of the Left. Bineesh Kodiyeri, the son of late CPIM leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan and currently the joint secretary of the Kerala Cricket Association, expressed his appreciation for the film. He remarked, “In today’s India, if a big-budget film is saying that the Sangh Parivar is ruling the country by inciting riots in Gujarat, it takes a lot of courage.” His comments reflect the sentiment among many in the Left-wing political spectrum, who view the film as a rare act of defiance against the dominant political narrative.
Despite the swirling controversy, Empuraan has been an unprecedented box-office success. Released on March 27, 2025, as a sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer, the film opened to phenomenal numbers. Early trade estimates suggest that the film earned approximately ₹22 crore net at the domestic box office on its first day, setting a new benchmark as the biggest opening in the history of Malayalam cinema. The grand scale of the film, combined with its gripping storyline and intense political undertones, has captivated audiences across the country.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring some of the biggest names in Indian and international cinema. Alongside Mohanlal and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the cast includes Tovino Thomas, Manju Warrier, Abhimanyu Singh, Andrea Tivadar, Game of Thrones actor Jerome Flynn, Indrajith Sukumaran, Eriq Ebouaney, and Suraj Venjaramoodu. The film’s narrative, which seamlessly blends action, politics, and drama, has been lauded for its ambitious storytelling and compelling performances.
As the controversy surrounding Empuraan continues to gain momentum, the debate over artistic freedom and political expression in cinema has once again come to the forefront. While some argue that filmmakers have the right to tell stories that reflect real-world events and political realities, others believe that cinema should steer clear of politically charged narratives that could deepen divisions in society. The coming weeks are likely to see further discussions, protests, and reactions from various political factions, making Empuraan not just a cinematic spectacle, but also a significant cultural moment in contemporary India.
