Tue Apr 01 10:10:43 UTC 2025: ## Mohanlal Film “L2: Empuraan” Undergoes Censorship Cuts Following Backlash

**Thiruvananthapuram, April 1, 2025** – The blockbuster Malayalam film “L2: Empuraan,” starring Mohanlal, has undergone 24 cuts totaling 2.08 minutes following significant right-wing criticism since its release last Thursday. The re-edited version, approved by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), will be shown in most Indian theaters by Wednesday.

The changes include a name alteration for the antagonist, originally named Balraj (alias Baba Bajrangi), a seeming reference to the convicted Naroda Patiya massacre mastermind Babu Bajrangi. The character’s name has been changed to Baldev. References to the 2002 Gujarat pogrom have also been altered, with the film’s timeframe changed from “India 2002” to “a few years ago.”

Further cuts removed scenes depicting violence against women, dead bodies, and vehicles passing a religious structure. A conversation between characters referencing the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and its alleged use by the ruling party against opponents has also been excised. The “Special Thanks” section of the credits saw the removal of actor and Union Minister Suresh Gopi and IRS officer Jyothis Mohan.

While the uncut version will continue screening internationally, the OTT release will reportedly incorporate the cuts. Despite the controversy, the film has seen massive box office success, reportedly grossing ₹200 crore worldwide by March 31st, and is currently playing to sold-out shows in Kerala.

The controversy has also seen expressions of solidarity with the filmmakers from some CPI(M) and Congress leaders, who viewed the uncut version.

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