Prithviraj Sukumaran has addressed the debate surrounding the Mohanlal-starrer L2: Empuraan for the first time in a detailed conversation with Manorama News, ahead of the promotion for his upcoming Malayalam film, Vilaayath Budha. The actor-director clarified that Empuraan's script was fully shared with both Mohanlal and the film’s producer Antony Perumbavoor, and that his creative vision was rooted in audience entertainment rather than political messaging.

Prithviraj said that he chose the project after listening to the story and finding it compelling. He explained that Murali Gopy's screenplay was narrated to everyone who needed to know, including the lead actor. According to him, there was complete clarity among the team before the film moved into production.

Responding to suggestions that L2: Empuraan was crafted with political intent, Prithviraj was unequivocal in his denial. “I made Empuraan to entertain, not to make a political statement,” he said in the interview. He explained that he never approaches a film with an agenda and pointed out that anyone who wishes to express a political opinion can easily do so on social media. According to him, there is no need to spend vast sums on a feature film for that purpose. Prithviraj added that if the film did not succeed in entertaining its audience, the failure belongs to him alone as the director.

The controversy around L2: Empuraan began when certain sequences, including those referencing communal violence, triggered criticism. The makers later removed or modified some scenes as the conversation intensified. The issue drew further attention when Major Ravi commented publicly that Mohanlal had not heard the full story of the film. This allegation created fresh debate among fans and industry followers.

Although Prithviraj’s mother Mallika Sukumaran had reacted earlier, Prithviraj himself remained silent until now. His latest comments give a clearer picture of his stance. He emphasised personal honesty and creative intent and said he does not feel the need to be anxious or defensive as long as he remains truthful to himself and his work.