Backlash forces 'Empuraan' producers to make changes
Hyphen Web Desk
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The Malayalam film 'Empuraan', directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and starring Mohanlal, is set to release a revised version in theatres next week following voluntary edits by the filmmakers. This decision comes after backlash from various right-wing organisations over the film's portrayal of events related to the 2002 Gujarat riots.
Upon its release on March 27, 'Empuraan' faced criticism for its depiction of the 2002 post-Godhra riots, with allegations that it promoted an anti-Hindu political agenda. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh mouthpiece, 'Organiser', accused the film of distorting historical facts and inciting communal discord. The publication highlighted scenes portraying Hindu men committing acts of violence against Muslims as particularly contentious.
In response to the controversy, the filmmakers decided to implement 17 cuts to the movie. These edits focus on reducing scenes depicting violence against women and removing content that could be interpreted as promoting religious hatred. Producer Gokulam Gopalan reportedly urged director Prithviraj Sukumaran to make these changes to prevent further public backlash.
The Central Board of Film Certification had initially suggested only minor modifications, including trimming scenes of sexual violence and altering references to the national flag. However, the filmmakers opted for more extensive edits beyond the CBFC's recommendations to address the concerns raised by various groups.
Organiser contended that Empuraan distorts historical facts by portraying Hindus as the sole aggressors during the 2002 riots. The publication highlights a particularly contentious scene depicting Hindu men committing brutal acts against Muslims, arguing that such portrayals misrepresent history and could incite communal tensions.
Additionally, the film is criticised for omitting the Godhra train burning incident, where 59 Hindu pilgrims were killed, an event that triggered the subsequent riots. The article questions the involvement of lead actor Mohanlal in a project perceived to push a divisive narrative.
The film also faces scrutiny for its depiction of a pro-Hindu political faction, drawing parallels to the Bharatiya Janata Party . Organiser asserts that Empuraan portrays this faction as a destabilizing force, with characters resembling BJP supporters shown as ruthless figures willing to go to extreme lengths to maintain control.
In response to the controversy, scriptwriter Murali Gopy has chosen to remain silent, stating, "Let them fight it out. Everyone has the right to interpret the film in their way."
Director Prithviraj Sukumaran has previously emphasized that his film choices are rooted in artistic expression rather than political motives. In an earlier interview, he stated, "I can only truthfully claim that I have never been a part of any film for any other reason other than being artistically attached to it."
The BJP's response to the film has been mixed. While some party members have called for a boycott, others, including state general secretary P. Sudheer, have taken a more measured stance, stating, "The film will go its way and the party will do its work. The party will not be affected by any film."
Despite the political controversy, Empuraan has achieved significant commercial success. The film recorded over ₹50 crore in global pre-sales and opened to packed theatres. Audience reactions have been varied, with some praising its visual appeal and engaging narrative, while others critique its pacing and the timing of Mohanlal's character introduction.
The film also faces scrutiny for its depiction of a pro-Hindu political faction, drawing parallels to the Bharatiya Janata Party . Organiser asserts that Empuraan portrays this faction as a destabilizing force, with characters resembling BJP supporters shown as ruthless figures willing to go to extreme lengths to maintain control.
In response to the controversy, scriptwriter Murali Gopy has chosen to remain silent, stating, "Let them fight it out. Everyone has the right to interpret the film in their way."
Director Prithviraj Sukumaran has previously emphasized that his film choices are rooted in artistic expression rather than political motives. In an earlier interview, he stated, "I can only truthfully claim that I have never been a part of any film for any other reason other than being artistically attached to it."
The BJP's response to the film has been mixed. While some party members have called for a boycott, others, including state general secretary P. Sudheer, have taken a more measured stance, stating, "The film will go its way and the party will do its work. The party will not be affected by any film."
Despite the political controversy, Empuraan has achieved significant commercial success. The film recorded over ₹50 crore in global pre-sales and opened to packed theatres. Audience reactions have been varied, with some praising its visual appeal and engaging narrative, while others critique its pacing and the timing of Mohanlal's character introduction.
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