Prithviraj Sukumaran: I’ve been called the brand ambassador of Kannada cinema

As the Malayalam film L2: Empuraan, Lucifer's sequel gears up for a theatrical release on March 27, it is set to transcend boundaries and unite cinema lovers across multiple languages. The film will be released in 4,000 theatres globally, with 1,350 in Karnataka alone—an achievement for this eagerly awaited project.

The release of L2: Empuraan comes six years after the release of Lucifer and is aimed at being a milestone for Malayalam cinema. Actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran, a driving force in the Malayalam film industry, has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Having distributed blockbusters like KGF: Chapter 2 and Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire in Kerala, Prithviraj describes Empuraan as “an aspirational project for our film industry,” embodying the hard work and dedication of countless individuals.

“I’ve been called the brand ambassador of Kannada cinema,” Prithviraj says. “I’ve had the privilege of distributing some of Kannada cinema’s biggest hits—from KGF 2 to Kantara, 777 Charlie and Salaar. KGF 2 was one of the biggest successes in Kerala. This project, however, is more than just business—it’s a dream, a passion that unites us all. L2: Empuraan is about a shared vision for cinema. Hombale Films is driven by purpose, and we are all part of that journey.”

Prithviraj also took a moment to express gratitude to Vijay Kiragandur and the Hombale Films team. “Hombale Films has been part of my journey since Lucifer in 2019. They were the first to distribute Lucifer in Karnataka, and now they continue to support L2: Empuraan here.”

Actor Mohanlal also thanked Kannada cinema for its growing influence. “I’ve been visiting Bengaluru for over 50 years and have acted in a few Kannada films. I share a deep connection with this city and its people,” he says. “With Empuraan, we are moving forward with the second chapter of Lucifer, a responsibility we carry with pride. The second chapter had to be grand, and we are fortunate to have an audience eagerly awaiting it.”

Mohanlal further acknowledged Prithviraj’s dedication: “Prithviraj has sacrificed two years of his life to bring L2: Empuraan to life. His commitment is unmatched, and the results will speak for themselves. His creations on screen are pure magic, and the cultural exchange between our industries enriches us all.”

Tovino Thomas, who also stars and produces the film, expresses his excitement an says, “Being part of Lucifer and now Empuraan has been an incredible experience. Prithviraj is a director I would love to collaborate with again and again. Sharing the screen with legends like Mohanlal and Abhimanyu is a dream come true.”

Manju Warrier, who plays one of the film's strongest roles, shares her gratitude. “Being part of such a grand film is a blessing. Empuraan will inspire many, and I’m lucky to be part of it.”

Abhimanyu Singh, who makes his Malayalam debut, feels ecstatic about working with a legendary team. “Working with Mohanlal has been an absolute honour,” he says. “The whole team has been fantastic, and I believe L2: Empuraan will make history when it releases this week.”