The Malayalam film “Empuraan” has been embroiled in a controversy surrounding its depiction of the 2002 Godhra riots. The film, a sequel to the 2019 blockbuster “Lucifer”, has been accused of distorting the events of the riots, leading to a backlash from the right-wing politicos. The film’s makers have even trimmed some scenes in response to the criticism.
The controversy has drawn the attention of several prominent figures, including former Infosys CFO and conservative advocate, Mohandas Pai. Pai took to social media to criticize the film’s lead actor, Mohanlal, for celebrating the film’s commercial success, saying, “A big propaganda film based on fake narratives! @Mohanlal should be ashamed not gloat!” A Congress party activist defending the film, hit back, saying, “True patriotism is about courage, not blind conformity. This film is a bold voice for justice—something fake nationalists like u will never understand.”
Pai responded, “Running fake narratives is not about courage! Who got burnt in Godhra? Who burnt the Kar Sevaks? Who were prosecuted and sentenced? People have to be honest not lie through their teeth if they want to show courage.” The controversy has sparked a debate on social media, with some defending the film’s right to creative expression, while others see it as an affront to national security.
The film is not the only one to tackle the sensitive subject of the Godhra riots. Earlier this year, “The Sabarmati Report” and “Accident or Conspiracy: Godhra” were released to mixed reviews. The debate surrounding “Empuraan” is unlikely to die down anytime soon, with both sides entrenched in their positions.