Kerala | 17 cuts in 'Empuraan' angers many; CM Vijayan says 'works of art against communalism being destroyed'

Thiruvananthapuram: The decision of the makers of Mohanlal starrer 'L2: Empuraan' to modify the film by removing certain portions following protest by Sangh parivar outfits seems to have further fueled the row.

From senior politicians to the ordinary spectators have flayed the decision to modify the film that has reference to the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Mohanlal's open regrets for certain contents of the film had also invited unpleasant reactions. Resignation of an office bearer of the actor's fans' association is also believed to be due to the resentment over the ace actor's stand.

The continuing silence of the film's writer Murali Gopy has also triggered speculations of unrest within the film's crew over the modification. Gopy as well as actor-director Prithiviraj Sukumaran continues to be attacked by sangh parivar activists and supporters on social media.

The critics of the decision to modify the much hyped film also cited The Kerala Story as an instance. The film was screened despite strong objection from a large section of the state that it was presenting distorted facts. Only the highly exaggerated portion of the teaser was altered.

Chief Minister Vijayan accused the Sangh Parivar for creating an 'atmosphere of fear' and said that it was a matter of concern that the works of art that were against communalism were being destroyed. The film has reference to the most brutal genocide that the country every witnessed and the sangh parivar were getting agitated as they masterminded it, the CPI(M) leader said in a social media post after watching the film.

With the modified version expected to replace the original version of the movie anytime, there was a rush of ordinary people and political leaders to witness the original version on Monday.

At least 17 portions are being modified and the name of the character 'Baba Bajrangi' would be changed.

Meanwhile, Mohanlal posted on social media that the film's collection reached Rs. 200 crore in five days.

"The OVERLORD shatters the 200 crore barrier in style! EMPURAAN makes history!" he posted.