Prithviraj Sukumaran on Empuraan row: I don't need to spend crores on a film to make a political statement
Prithviraj Sukumaran breaks silence nearly 8 months after the Empuraan release and the subsequent row, stating that he does not have to make a big film, spending crores, to make a political statement.
Last Updated: 08.10 AM, Nov 17, 2025
Malayalam actor-filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran made his third directorial venture, L2 Empuraan, which sparked a huge controversy, grabbing even national headlines over its alleged anti-right-wing content. Even Empuraan’s lead actor Mohanlal was forced to put out a statement, apologising to his fans. Though Prithviraj shared Mohanlal’s statement on social media, he maintained a pregnant silence over the controversy. Now, Prithviraj breaks the silence nearly eight months after the film’s release and the subsequent row, stating that he does not have to make a big film, spending crores, to make a political statement.
Prithviraj breaks silence on Empuraan row
The 2025 Malayalam film Empuraan, starring Mohanlal, was one of the most-anticipated movies of the year, opening to record numbers on March 27, 2025. Soon after, the Prithviraj directorial was embroiled in controversies with the right-wing section objecting to certain scenes and characters in the Lucifer sequel. Reacting to the controversy during an interview with Manorama News, Prithviraj said that it was never his intention to make a political statement through a film.
“My only objective was to entertain the audiences. If I have failed in that, it’s my failure as a filmmaker. I will never spend crores to make a political statement, you don't need to do that in today’s times. Just put out a statement on social media. I don't need to do such a big film for that. As long as I am true to myself, I don't think I need to get upset or fear anyone,” pointed out the articulate Prithviraj, who is not the one to mince his words.
Murali Gopy had penned the script for the second installment in the Lucifer franchise, which depicted the changing political landscape in Kerala. The film featured a star-studded ensemble including Tovino Thomas, Manju Warrier, Abhimanyu Singh, Jerome Flynn, and Andrea Tivadar, among several others. Despite the controversies, the film went on to become the highest-grossing Malayalam film but was toppled from the top post by Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra.
On the other hand, Prithviraj is gearing up for the release of Vilayath Buddha, which hits theatres on November 21, 2025. Another much-anticipated film of the Malayalam star is Varanasi, which was launched in a grand event held in Hyderabad on November 15. Prithviraj was also in attendance at the Globetrotter event, which also had Mahesh Babu, director SS Rajamouli and Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
FAQs
Q. Where to watch Empuraan on OTT?
A. You can watch Empuraan, helmed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, on JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium. Malayalam superstar Mohanlal plays the lead role.
Q. When will Vilayath Buddha release?
A. Vilayath Buddha will release in theatres on November 21, 2025, its lead actor Prithviraj Sukumaran has confirmed.
Q. Is Prithviraj Sukumaran in Varanasi movie?
A. Yes, Prithviraj Sukumaran plays Kumba in the Varanasi movie, helmed by SS Rajamouli and starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas.