Prithviraj addresses 'Empuraan' controversy saying Mohanlal was in the loop about script

Dubai: Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran has finally broken his silence on the debates swirling around L2: Empuraan, clarifying key concerns about the film’s creative process and rejecting allegations that he uses cinema to advance personal political opinions.

The uproar began after film director Major Ravi publicly implied that Mohanlal had not been part of the script discussions before the film went into production. The remarks fueled widespread speculation within the Malayalam film fraternity and triggered heated online discussions.

Speaking to Manorama News during promotions for Vilaayath Buddha, Prithviraj categorically denied the claims. He stressed that Mohanlal and the film’s producer were fully informed about the script well in advance, adding that openness with his core team has always been non-negotiable. “There has never been a situation where anyone was kept in the dark,” he said, rubbishing talk of secrecy around the project.

Prithviraj also addressed recurring accusations that his films are coded with political messaging. Calling the allegation baseless, he said, “If I have something to say politically, I am capable of saying it openly. I don’t need to hide it inside a film.” He reiterated that honesty has always guided his public comments and creative choices.

Reflecting on the current climate of online discourse, the actor-filmmaker noted how drastically social media has reshaped public conversations. “Social media has been weaponised,” he observed, pointing out that any statement—especially one touching on politics—gets immediately polarised.

“One side will brand you a hero and the other a villain. Both extremes are dangerous.”

He added that navigating this hyper-charged environment can be challenging for public figures.

“Your words can be twisted beyond recognition. In such times, choosing silence is not wrong,” he said, explaining why he prefers restraint when conversations turn toxic.

Prithviraj also spoke about the emotional toll of online harassment within the industry.

“People have cried to me about what they face. Those who target them know exactly what they’re doing, yet they take pleasure in it,” he said, urging for greater awareness about its impact.

Major Ravi’s earlier claim—that Mohanlal saw the film only after its release—had raised eyebrows and was interpreted by many as a critique of Prithviraj’s collaborative style.