Actor‑director Prithviraj Sukumaran has spoken out after months of heated debate over L2: Empuraan, stating the film was never meant to push any political agenda. In a recent interview he clarified that the complete script was shared with Mohanlal and producer Gokulam Gopalan before shooting, and that any perceived propaganda was unintentional. “If I wanted to express my politics, I would do it on social media,” he said, adding that the responsibility for a film’s shortcomings lies with the director.
Prithviraj accepted full accountability for the audience’s sense of disconnection, calling it “my failure as a filmmaker” and rejecting any attempt to shift blame. He also addressed rumors that Mohanlal was kept in the dark, confirming both the senior actor and the producer had approved the script in advance. Despite the backlash, the film crossed ₹250 crore worldwide, briefly holding the title of the highest‑grossing Malayalam film before being overtaken by Lokah: Chapter 1 at ₹300 crore.
The actor‑director criticized the toxic environment on social media, where ordinary discussions turn into fights and people are attacked for political opinions. He noted that many industry colleagues have reached out in distress after being targeted online, and that the mob mentality has made the digital space dangerous. “If you speak about politics, one group calls you a villain, another treats you like a hero, both are dangerous,” he warned.
In response to the controversies, the makers have prepared an edited version of Empuraan that removes the most contentious riot scenes and sequences involving violence against women. This revised cut is set for a fresh theatrical release. Prithviraj concluded by emphasizing honesty: “If what you say is honest, there is no need to fear anyone,” reaffirming his commitment to transparency despite the criticism.