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Despite controversy, Mohanlal's Empuraan crosses Rs 200 cr in less than 5 days
Mohanlal-starrer L2: Empuraan has been at the center of a heated political debate over its portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat riots. Even as the film faced criticism from right-wing outfits and their supporters, Empuraan has been witnessing an upward trend at the global box office. Undeterred by the controversy and an imposed censorship, the film continues to attract a massive crowd. Empuraan enters the Rs 200 crore club Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film has entered the Rs 200 crore club in less than five days. The worldwide collections of the film mark the fastest box office success ever seen by a Malayalam film. On Monday, Mohanlal and Prithviraj took to social media to announce this new milestone achieved by the film. Released on March 27, Empuraan crossed the Rs 100 crore mark in less than 48 hours. With this, it has become the fastest Malayalam film to enter both the Rs 100 crore and Rs 200 crore clubs. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aashirvad Cinemas (@aashirvadcine) Empuraan controversy The film's success comes amid a nationwide controversy. Members of the RSS and BJP have vocally opposed the film's portrayal of the Gujarat riots. One particular scene depicts a Hindutva mob brutally murdering a group of Muslims. Another controversial scene allegedly shows a man assaulting a pregnant Muslim woman. The Sangh Parivar has also accused the movie of whitewashing Islamic terrorism and distorting history. Empuraan team resorts to self-censorship Following the backlash, the makers have voluntarily incorporated 17 changes in the political action thriller and have sought approval from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for these modifications. An insider revealed to Mid-day, “Many felt that the character of Baba Bajrangi in the film bore similarities to Babu Bajrangi, who was convicted for his role in the 2002 Naroda Patiya massacre and is currently out on bail on medical grounds. In response to the backlash, the film’s producers sought approval from the CBFC to make modifications. The 17 edits will include changing Baba Bajrangi’s name and reducing the riot scenes to half their current runtime. A scene depicting violence against a pregnant woman will also be shortened. Before its release, the CBFC had initially recommended only two edits—one reducing a scene of sexual violence by half, thus limiting a violent act to a flash, and another removing the national flag from a particular scene. These adjustments were made in accordance with the board’s guidelines. With the new set of changes, the overall runtime will be reduced by just about a minute.”
01 April,2025 09:26 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kannada superstar Yash and his wife Radhika Pandit wish fans on Ugadi
On the occasion of Ugadi on Sunday, Kannada superstar Yash and his wife Radhika Pandit have wished his fans and followers ‘abundant happiness, unwavering peace and boundless prosperity’. The “KGF” franchise star and Radhika shared a collaborative post on Instagram. In the image, Yash looks dapper in a shirt paired with grey pants while his wife looked like a doll in a pink and blue saree. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Radhika Pandit (@iamradhikapandit) For the caption they wrote in Kannada: “New year greetings to everyone... Hope Ugadi festival brings happiness, happiness and prosperity to all of you. Happy Ugadi to you once again from our family…” They added in English: “May this new year usher in abundant happiness, unwavering peace, and boundless prosperity for you and your family. Like the traditional Ugadi ‘Bevvu Bella’(neem leaves and jaggery) which symbolises life is a beautiful blend of bitter and sweet; embrace it all with grace.” “Wishing you a truly joyous Ugadi! And to those celebrating, a very Happy Gudi Padwa.” On the work front, Yash will now be seen in the upcoming film ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups’ as the film is set to arrive in cinemas on March 19, 2026. The release date announcement of the film was done through a special poster. The action-packed image showcases Yash rousing from the flames, promising an adrenaline-fueled cinematic experience. A shadowy silhouette shrouded in smoke adds an air of mystery, hinting at the intrigue that lies within this gritty, stylized universe. The film brings together the best and highly sought after talent from Indian and International cinema, and will be dubbed in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and several other languages. The film is helmed by Geetu Mohandas, who is known for her emotionally resonant, award-winning cinema. With accolades like the National Award and the prestigious Global Filmmaking Award at the Sundance Film Festival under her belt, Mohandas has carved a niche on the world stage. The film is jointly produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
31 March,2025 12:24 PM IST | Mumbai | ANI
Rashmika and Vijay Deverakonda papped during a lunch date
The speculations of Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda being in a relationship have been going around for quite some time now. The rumored lovebirds once again made headlines as they were captured by the shutterbugs on a lunch date in Mumbai following the grand release of Rashmika's 'Sikandar'. Vijay and Rashmika's secret lunch date The 'Animal' actress looked breezy in a simple T, baggy denim, and a sports cap. Accompanying her, VD was seen in a white floral shirt with off-white trousers and a brown beanie. While Rashmika greeted the paps and even posed with her fans, Vijay entered the restaurant from the back. The video of their lunch date is doing rounds on social media. Refreshing your memory, Rashmika and VD have been romantically linked ever since the 'Geetha Govindam' days. These two are often spotted together at events and are even seen taking vacations together. Despite giving all the hints, Rashmika and Vijay have never confirmed their relationship. When Rashmika Mandanna spills the beans about her ‘partner’ In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter earlier this year, Rashmika opened up about her “happy place” stating, "Home is my happy place. It makes me feel anchored, makes me feel rooted, makes me feel like success can come and go, but it’s not a forever. But home is forever. So, I work from that space. As much as the love and this fame and the visibility that I get, I still am, just a daughter, just a sister, just a partner. I really respect that life, that personal life that I have." Rashmika's work front Rashmika has been having a great run at the box office. She started the year with Chhaava that smashed all records at the box office. The film that was fronted by Vicky Kaushal narrated the bravery of Maharatha King Sambhaji Maharaj, son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Rashmika essayed the role of Sambhaji's wife Yesubai in the Laxman Utekar directorial. Her film Sikandar was released on Sunday. Helmed by A. R. Murugadoss, 'Sikandar' also stars Salman Khan, Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, Sharman Joshi, and Prateik Babbar in significant roles. Additionally, Rashmika's promising lineup includes 'Thama', 'Kuberaa', and 'The Girlfriend'. On the other hand, Vijay Deverakonda is waiting for the release of his next 'Kingdom'. The highly-anticipated flick is scheduled to release on May 30.
31 March,2025 10:44 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Makers of Mohanlal's L2- Empuraan to voluntarily incorporate 17 changes
At the launch of L2: Empuraan, when mid-day had asked Prithviraj Sukumaran whether he felt compelled to self-censor the political drama in today’s times, the director had noted that cinema is always “inspired by what is happening in society” and that it’s important for a filmmaker to stay objective (When movies hold up a mirror to society, March 3). Today, Sukumaran has taken his Mohanlal-starrer back to the editing table, after the March 27 release was criticised by some ring-wing groups for its depiction of the 2002 Gujarat riots. The makers are voluntarily incorporating 17 changes in the political actioner and have sought the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) approval for the modifications. Prithviraj Sukumaran An insider reveals, “Many felt that the character of Baba Bajrangi in the film has similarities to Babu Bajrangi, who was convicted for his role in the 2002 Naroda Patiya massacre and is currently out on bail on medical grounds. In response to the backlash, the film’s producers sought approval from the CBFC to make modifications. The 17 edits will include changing Baba Bajrangi’s name, and reducing the riot scenes to half its current runtime. A scene that shows pregnant women being violated will be shortened. Before its release, the CBFC had initially recommended only two edits—one was reducing a scene of sexual violence by half, thus limiting a violent act to a flash; another was removing the national flag in a scene. These adjustments were made in line with the board’s guidelines. With the new set of changes, the runtime will be reduced by just about a minute.” The source says that the changes will be reviewed by the CBFC after which a fresh certificate will be issued on Monday. The new version of L2: Empuraan will likely be played in theatres from April 2. ‘Regret causing distress’ On Sunday, Mohanlal issued an apology, stating, “I have come to know that certain political and social themes portrayed in Empuraan, the second part of the Lucifer franchise, have caused deep distress to many who love me. As an artiste, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films express hatred toward any political movement, ideology, or religious group. Therefore, both I and the Empuraan team sincerely regret the distress caused to my dear ones. We also acknowledge that the responsibility for this rests with all of us who worked behind the film. With this realisation, we have collectively decided to remove such elements from the movie.”
31 March,2025 07:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar Basu
This is a mother's pain: Prithviraj's mother Mallika Sukumaran on Empuraan
Mallika, on Sunday, took to her Facebook account to share her disappointment over the criticism her son, Prithviraj has been facing, particularly the claims that he had allegedly misled superstar Mohanlal and the producers of L2: Empuraan. Prithviraj has directed the film and also played the role of Zayed Masood in the film. Mallika Sukumaran on L2:Empuraan controversy and allegations "This is a mother's pain. There is no point in someone making fun of me for speaking openly about it. Neither Mohanlal nor the producers have said that Prithviraj cheated them. I don't think they will ever say that. Mohanlal is like my younger brother. I have known Lal since childhood. Mohanlal has praised my son on many occasions. But it is very sad that some people are trying to make my son a scapegoat without the knowledge of Lal or the producers. Director Prithviraj has not cheated anyone associated with this film or any film. He will never do so," she wrote. In her post, Mallika also clarified that Prithviraj, who directed Empuraan, did not deceive anyone and that all key members of the project, including writer Murali Gopy, were involved in script approvals and revisions. "If you feel that there is any problem with the film Empuraan, then everyone in this group is responsible for it. They all read the script together. They all saw the scenes being shot together, and everyone agreed. If scenes needed to be edited during shooting, writer Murali Gopy was always willing to do so... then how can Prithviraj be solely responsible for it when everything was finalized and the film was released?" "I want to make it clear that there is not a single shot in Empuraan that neither of them (Mohanlal or the producers) knew about. There is nothing in this film that Mohanlal does not know. Neither of them would say that they were unaware of anything in the film," she added. 17 new cuts for L2: Empuraan The film stirred a huge row over its alleged portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat riots, which took place during Narendra Modi's tenure as the state’s Chief Minister. Amid the ongoing debate surrounding the Malayalam political thriller, the makers are set to snip the film with 17 cuts and will release the fresh version next week. According to a report by Manorama News, Prithviraj and the producers of the film decided to submit the edited version to the Censor Board following the backlash. Once the Central Board of Film Certification approves it, the new version will be available in cinema halls by next week. 17 cuts have been made to tone down the violence against women and the depiction of religious hatred regarding the 2002 Gujarat riots.
30 March,2025 10:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Liger director Puri Jagannadh announces pan-India film with Vijay Sethupathi
On the occasion of Ugadi, filmmaker Puri Jagannadh and producer Charmme Kaur announced their next with Vijay Sethupathi. The yet-untitled film will be pan-India. Previously, Puri and Charmme had collaborated for Dharma Productions's Liger starring Ananya Panday and Vijay Deverakonda. Puri Jagannadh to direct Vijay Sethupathi The film in the deadly combination of Dashing Director Puri Jagannadh and Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi promises to be unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. With Puri’s signature flair for unique hero’s characterization, gripping storytelling and the powerhouse actor Vijay Sethupathi’s impeccable screen presence, this is going to be an EPIC Pan-India extravaganza. This ambitious movie will be mounted lavishly by Puri Jagannadh and Charmme Kaur under the banner of Puri Connects. The official announcement has been made today, on the occasion of Telugu New Year – Ugadi. Vijay Sethupathi to be seen in a never-before-seen avatar The makers describe it as a cinematic extravaganza, bringing together Puri’s dynamic storytelling style and Sethupathi’s magnetic screen presence. The project gains further intrigue with Puri having penned a unique script that showcases a side of Vijay Sethupathi never seen before. The announcement of the film project radiates the excitement and synergy between Vijay Sethupathi, Puri Jagannadh, and Charmme Kaur as they come together to bring this dream project to life. The film will be released in five languages -- Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi -- ensuring a wide pan-India reach. Known for his flair for crafting distinctive characters and compelling narratives, Puri Jagannadh will be presenting Vijay Sethupathi in a role that is said to be completely new for the versatile actor. This ambitious venture will be produced on a grand scale by Puri Jagannadh and Charmme Kaur under their banner, Puri Connects. The film’s regular shoot begins in June, and it’s going to be a multi-language release in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi languages. Vijay Sethupathi's work front The actor was last seen in the film Viduthalai part 2. The film focuses on issues of casteism and naxalism. Some critics pointed out that these issues were prominent in the 70s and 80s and why the actor is not making films focused on contemporary issues. It’s not about highlighting burning topics; it’s about telling the stories of people and their lives. The film isn’t made to earn praise or gain a good name. I’m proud to have worked on this project. Although the story is set in the 70s, if it still resonates with you, then it’s a reflection of the fact that these issues persist even today.”
30 March,2025 08:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Here's why Gudi Padwa is special for Amruta Khanvilkar this time
For actress Amruta Khanvilkar this year's Gudi Padwa is extra special. The actress who predominantly works in Marathi cinema, will be celebrating the New Year in her new home in the city. The actress recently bought a plush property in the entertainment capital of the country, and is all set to celebrate the festival with the new energy of a new space. Amruta Khanvilkar's Gudi Padwa For her, Gudi Padwa has always been a special festival and close to her heart. She said, "After Diwali, it's the one festival that's most important to me. Over the years, this festival has become even more significant because of the beautiful childhood memories associated with it. When I was young and living in Pune with Aditi, Baba would perform all the Gudi Padwa rituals early in the morning. He would do everything with such attention to detail. After the puja, he would sit us down and explain the significance of Gudi. He would say that Gudi is a symbol of our dreams, desires, and the manifestation of positive energy." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amruta Khanvilkar (@amrutakhanvilkar) The occasion of Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the Marathi New Year. She further mentioned, "One thing he told me has always stayed with me, 'Gudi should touch the sky.' The feeling behind these words touched my heart deeply, and it became the guiding principle of my life." The actress said this means that the dreams, desires, positive energy, and hard work, dedication, and professionalism in personal and professional lives, should always soar high, just like the Gudi that's raised high, symbolising victory and new beginnings. "This year's Gudi Padwa is truly special for me. I'm celebrating it in my own home, which I've purchased for myself. After so many years of working in the industry, struggling, doing films, and handling various projects, I can confidently say that this is my own home. This house has given me not only my own space but also helped me find myself. I've found true peace and stability here. Life has had its ups and downs, but this house has protected me with its own magic and taken care of me. As this house took shape, I felt a new sense of enthusiasm, confidence, and energy," she added. Amruta Khanvilkar's work front Meanwhile, on the work front, the actress has a special number in the upcoming film 'Sushila-Sujit'.
30 March,2025 06:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Sivaji reacts to Chiranjeevi praising his performance in Court
Actor Sivaji, who made a return to the silver screen after nearly 13 years with director Ram Jagadish's courtroom drama 'Court – State Vs A Nobody', on Saturday, was thrilled about actor Chiranjeevi appreciating him for his performance in the film. Sivaji shares love for Chiranjeevi Taking to X to post pictures of himself with Chiranjeevi, Sivaji wrote, "This moment will be etched in my heart forever! My dearest annayya @KChiruTweets garu watched our #CourtTelugu and expressed his immense appreciation to this Mangapathi & whole team. Words can't describe this happiness! Love you Annayya." This moment will be etched in my heart forever!My dearest annayya @KChiruTweets garu watched our #CourtTelugu and expressed his immense appreciation to this Mangapathi & whole team.Words can’t describe this happiness!Love you Annayya❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/UJFf47sQUv — Sivaji (@ActorSivaji) March 29, 2025 Sivaji on his character in Court It may be recalled that Sivaji had earlier, in an interview, said that his dream of 25 years had come true with the character he had played in 'Court'. Sivaji plays the powerful role of Mangapati in the film. In an earlier event, Sivaji opened up on his comeback to films. "The character of a man in court was my 25-year dream. I am very happy to have got this opportunity through Nani," he said. Before Court, he was seen in the 2016 film Seesa. Talking about his character in the film, Sivaji said, "I asked the director what made him select me for this character. He said that he had selected the perfect actor for this role. I feel this character was made for me. I somehow think that the director took this character from real life. The credit for everything related to my character must go to the director. He gave me the opportunity to prove that I can do this." About Court Court was released in theatres on March 14 and has been directed by debutant Ram Jagadeesh. The film is a courtroom drama centered around the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, exploring its potential for misuse and the struggle for justice in the face of societal prejudice and power dynamics. The film, which has been presented by actor Nani's Wall Poster Cinema, has now emerged a huge success. The film, which opened to positive reviews, features Priyadarshi in the lead role and has been produced by Prashanthi Tipirneni. Deepthi Ganta is the co-producer.
30 March,2025 06:35 PM IST | Chennai | mid-day online correspondent
Empuraan controversy: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan watches Mohanlal-starrer
Prithviraj Sukumaran-directed Empuraan was released in theatres on March 27. The film headlined by actor Mohanlal, landed in a controversy after right-wing political outfits criticized the film for portraying the 2002 Gujarat riots. The film was termed anti-Hindu by a section of the film who also demanded a ban on the film. Amid this, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan watched the film on Saturday and put out a statement in favour of protecting the rights of freedom of expression of artists. Kerala CM supports Empuraan makers A day after watching the film, the CM took to his social media handle to share his thoughts surrounding the film's controversies. Backing the filmmakers, Vijayan wrote in Malayalam, “I watched the movie at a time when widespread hate campaigns were being unleashed by Sangh Parivar communal forces against the film, its actors, and its crew. What seems to have infuriated the architects of the Sangh Parivar is the film’s reference to one of the most brutal genocides the country has witnessed. Not only the cadres but even leaders of the BJP and RSS have openly issued threats.” "Reports have even emerged that, under pressure, the filmmakers are being forced to resubmit the film for re-censorship and make cuts. This atmosphere of fear created by the Sangh Parivar is deeply concerning,” the Kerala chief minister said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) Vijayan also addressed the call for bans and censorship on the film and termed such mentality as " fresh manifestations of a fascist mindset”. “This is a violation of democratic rights. The right to create films, to watch them, to enjoy them, to evaluate them, to agree or disagree with them—these rights must not be lost. For that, the united voice of this land, rooted in democratic and secular values, must rise,” the chief minister said. Mohanlal apologises amid Empuraan controversy The actor acknowledged that certain aspects of the film had caused distress to some of his fans and assured that the team had decided to remove such references."I have come to know that some political and social themes that were included in the unveiling of Empuran, the second part of the Lucifer franchise, have caused considerable distress among many of my loved ones," the actor wrote in a Facebook post."As an artist, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films promote hatred towards any political movement, ideology, or religious group. Therefore, both I and the Empuran team express our sincere regret for the distress caused to my dear ones, and we all take responsibility for it, with the realization that such issues must be removed from the film," he wrote in Malayalam.The actor reiterated his gratitude towards his audience, saying, "For the past four decades, it is you, the audience, who have been a part of my cinematic journey. Your love and trust are my strength. I believe there is no Mohanlal beyond that." Actor-filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran, who has directed the movie, has shared Mohanlal's Facebook post.
30 March,2025 05:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Mohanlal apologizes to fans for L2: Empuraan controversy
Actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran and Mohanlal’s L2: Empuraan has been facing backlash over its alleged portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat riots, which took place during Narendra Modi's tenure as the state’s Chief Minister. Now, with reports going around that CBFC has asked the makers to release a fresh version with 17 new cuts, Mohanlal has put out an apology for his fans "for the distress caused" and assured the audience that the required subject will be removed from the film. Mohanlal apologises to fans for L2: Empuraan In his post, Mohanlal, while apologizing to his fans, shared, "I have come to know that some of the political and social themes that have come into play in the film Empuraan, the second part of the Lucifer franchise, have caused great distress to many of my loved ones. As an artiste, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films harbors hatred towards any political movement, ideology, or sect." He also shared that whatever has happened, "responsibility lies with all of us behind the film." He further continued and added, "The Empuraan team and I are deeply sorry for the distress caused to my loved ones, and with the realization that the responsibility lies with all of us behind the film, we have decided together to remove such subjects from the film." 17 new cuts for L2: Empuraan According to a report by Manorama News, Prithviraj and the producers of the film decided to submit the edited version to the Censor Board following the backlash. Once the Central Board of Film Certification approves it, the new version will be available in cinema halls by next week. 17 cuts have been made to tone down the violence against women and the depiction of religious hatred regarding the 2002 Gujarat riots. Scriptwriter dismisses controversy According to the article published in the Organiser weekly, which the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) clarified is not its mouthpiece, the film—rather than focusing on "historic true events"—used the backdrop of the 2002 riots to push a divisive, anti-Hindu narrative that poses a serious threat to societal harmony. Gopy, however, has dismissed the controversy, saying everyone had the right to interpret the film. "I will keep total silence on the controversy. Let them fight it out. Everyone has the right to interpret the film in their (own) way," he told PTI. Meanwhile, Empuraan is shattering records at the box office. It also became the first Malayalam film to register a worldwide opening gross of Rs 80 crore. It was released in theatres on March 27. (With inputs from Agencies)
30 March,2025 02:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Empuraan to make 17 cuts amid backlash over 2002 Gujarat riots scene
Actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran's Mohanlal-fronted L2: Empuraan has found itself in hot water as it faces backlash from right-wing supporters within two days of its release on the big screens. The film stirred a huge row over its alleged portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat riots, which took place during Narendra Modi's tenure as the state’s Chief Minister. Amid the ongoing debate surrounding the Malayalam political thriller, the makers are set to snip the film with 17 cuts and will release the fresh version next week. 17 new cuts for L2: Empuraan According to a report by Manorama News, Prithviraj and the producers of the film decided to submit the edited version to the Censor Board following the backlash. Once the Central Board of Film Certification approves it, the new version will be available in cinema halls by next week. 17 cuts have been made to tone down the violence against women and the depiction of religious hatred regarding the 2002 Gujarat riots. Scriptwriter dismisses controversy According to the article published in the Organiser weekly, which the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) clarified is not its mouthpiece, the film- rather than focusing on "historic true events"- used the backdrop of the 2002 riots to push a divisive, anti-Hindu narrative that poses a serious threat to societal harmony. The article also took on scriptwriter Murali Gopy, alleging that he had committed a crime against social harmony of the country by penning "untrue events from his wonderland thoughts". "Even the critics argue that the film deliberately distorts historical facts while ignoring the tragic murder of 59 innocent passengers- mostly Hindu pilgrims- who were burned alive when a compartment of the Sabarmati Express was set on fire by rioters in 2002," it said. Gopy, however, has dismissed the controversy, saying everyone had the right to interpret the film. "I will keep total silence on the controversy. Let them fight it out. Everyone has the right to interpret the film in their (own) way," he told PTI. Meanwhile, Empuraan is shattering records at the box office. It also became the first Malayalam film to register a worldwide opening gross of Rs 80 crore. It was released in theatres on March 27. (With inputs from Agencies)
29 March,2025 06:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent