The Mohanlal-starrer L2: Empuraan is set to be released in a re-edited version, with a trimmed runtime of 2 hours, 57 minutes and 44 seconds. This follows the removal of 2 minutes and 8 seconds from its original length of 2 hours, 59 minutes and 52 seconds. While the exact changes made remain unclear, reports suggest the removal of a controversial sexual assault scene involving a pregnant woman, along with the alteration of the antagonist’s name, which was previously Bajrangi.
Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and scripted by Murali Gopy, the second instalment in the Lucifer trilogy has faced intense political scrutiny since its release on March 27. Right-wing groups have accused it of portraying the BJP and RSS in a negative light, while critics claim it carries political undertones resembling real-life communal conflicts. The backlash led to demands for cuts, with allegations that the film misrepresented historical events.
Amid mounting controversy, Mohanlal issued a statement expressing regret over any unintended distress caused and assured that changes would be made. Meanwhile, Prithviraj’s mother and veteran actor Mallika Sukumaran strongly defended her son, dismissing claims that he had deceived Mohanlal or co-producer Antony Perumbavoor.
Although reports initially indicated that 17 scenes would be removed, the final version appears to have undergone fewer modifications. The Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA) has confirmed that the changes were made voluntarily, without intervention from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Despite the controversy, L2: Empuraan has been a major box office success, surpassing $10 million in overseas earnings within three days and crossing the Rs 100 crore mark globally in just two days, as claimed by the makers.
