‘Empuraan’ Film Sparks Debate with Portrayal of 2002 Gujarat Riots

Story Highlights:

• Malayalam film Empuraan reportedly portrays the Gujarat pogrom of 2002

• The film is directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran with Mohanlal playing the lead role

• A political controversy is brewing up about Empuraan

• The film is doing well at the box office

The recently released Malayalam film ‘Empuraan,’ directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and starring Mohanlal, has ignited intense discussions due to its depiction of the 2002 Gujarat riots. The film’s narrative delves into these communal clashes, presenting a perspective that has elicited both praise and criticism from various political and social groups.

In ‘Empuraan,’ the character Zayed Masood, portrayed by Prithviraj, is introduced through a harrowing sequence set during the 2002 Gujarat riots. This portrayal has been lauded by members of the Left and the Congress, who commend the film for exposing what they describe as the “Sangh Parivar agenda.” 

Conversely, right-wing groups have expressed strong disapproval, accusing the filmmakers of maligning Hindutva ideology and attempting to appease “anti-national elements.” Some factions have even called for a boycott of the film. 

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kerala has responded to the controversy by stating that they are not opposed to any movie. This neutral stance comes amidst the polarized reactions from various political entities and social media users. 

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Screenwriter Murali Gopy has shared behind-the-scenes images from the film’s set in Gujarat, offering fans a glimpse into the production process. These images have sparked curiosity and discussions among fans, particularly regarding the film’s content and the absence of lead actor Mohanlal in the shared photos. 

The film’s production faced significant challenges, notably when a key outdoor set was submerged during the Gujarat floods of 2024. This setback required the crew to rebuild the set to complete a pivotal action sequence, demonstrating their resilience and commitment to the project. 

‘Empuraan’ – released on March 27, 2025 – is the second installment in an ambitious trilogy, following the 2019 blockbuster ‘Lucifer.’ The title ‘Empuraan’ signifies a figure of immense power, described by director Prithviraj Sukumaran as “more than a king and less than a god.” 

The film’s depiction of the Gujarat riots has not only sparked political debates but also raised questions about the responsibilities of filmmakers in portraying historical events. While some view ‘Empuraan’ as a courageous attempt to shed light on sensitive issues, others see it as a controversial move that could deepen societal divisions.

Despite the controversies, ‘Empuraan’ reportedly achieved remarkable commercial success. According to reports, the film has made history by becoming the first Malayalam movie to register a worldwide gross of over Rs 80 crore on its opening day. This achievement underscores the film’s widespread appeal and the audience’s eagerness to engage with its content.

The polarized reactions to ‘Empuraan’ reflect the complex landscape of Indian cinema, where storytelling often intersects with political and social narratives. As the film continues to draw audiences, it remains to be seen how these discussions will evolve and what impact they will have on the broader discourse surrounding artistic expression and historical representation in Indian films.