Kozhikode native Midhun Vijayakumar has filed a complaint with the Ministry of Defence, alleging that actor Mohanlal has acted in a manner unbecoming of his honorary military rank. The complainant urges the Ministry to review the honorary Lieutenant Colonel rank conferred upon Mohanlal, arguing that his role in Empuraan does not align with the dignity expected of an officer in the Territorial Army.
The complaint highlights that Empuraan portrays the National Investigation Agency (NIA) as being susceptible to political influence, a depiction deemed inappropriate for someone holding a military rank. Furthermore, the complainant contrasts this with Mohanlal’s earlier film Keerthichakra, which portrayed the Indian Army in high regard and played a role in his honorary title being awarded. The complaint suggests that Keerthichakra inspired many young people across the country, whereas Empuraan sends a problematic message.
Amidst this controversy, Mohanlal took to Facebook on 30th March to express his regret over the political and social themes in Empuraan, acknowledging that they may have caused distress to his beloved ones. His post comes shortly after the Empuraan team voluntarily agreed to 17 cuts, a change in the villain’s name, and the muting of several dialogues.
In his statement, Mohanlal clarified that his films do not intend to promote hatred towards any political ideology, organisation, or religious group. He stated:
“I have come to know that some of the political and social themes incorporated into Empuraan, the second part of Lucifer, have caused great mental distress to many of my beloved ones. As an artist, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films promote hatred towards any political movement, ideology, or religious community. Therefore, the Empuraan team and I deeply regret the distress caused. Recognising that the responsibility lies with all of us who worked on the film, we have collectively decided to remove such elements from the movie.
I have lived my four-decade-long film career as one among you. My only strength is your love and trust—there is no Mohanlal greater than that.
Yours affectionately,
Mohanlal.”
However, notably, Prithviraj, the director of Empuraan and one of its lead actors, has not issued a similar statement. He has, however, shared Mohanlal’s post, indicating his alignment with the veteran actor’s stance.
With this complaint and the subsequent developments, the controversy surrounding Empuraan continues to grow. Malayalam film fans now eagerly await the Ministry of Defence’s response and the film industry’s next moves.
