Kerala BJP Leader Calls Prithviraj’s Wife ‘Urban Naxal’ Amid Row Over 'L2: Empuraan'

The controversy surrounding the film 'Empuraan' has escalated, with Kerala BJP leader B Gopalakrishnan launching a sharp attack on actor Prithviraj Sukumaran's wife, Supriya Menon, labelling her an "urban Naxal."

Gopalakrishnan made this remark while responding to a media query regarding a social media post by 'L2: Empuraan' director Prithviraj's mother, Mallika Sukumaran. In her post, Mallika defended her son, arguing that he was being unfairly singled out.

Photo Credit: https://x.com/PrithviOfficial

"Mallika Sukumaran did not say anything about cinema; she was commenting on Major Ravi. She claimed that Major Ravi was specifically targeting her son Prithviraj. But that is not a topic related to cinema, is it? And before criticising Major Ravi, she should first criticise the daughter-in-law she has at home," Gopalakrishnan said.

Taking issue with Mallika's indirect criticism of filmmaker Major Ravi and actor Mohanlal's stance on the matter, Gopalakrishnan also described Prithviraj's wife as arrogant and urged Mallika to "rein her daughter-in-law in."

The BJP leader's remarks stemmed from Mallika Sukumaran's social media defence of her son, asserting that vested interests were unfairly targeting him. "The BJP in Kerala has only one thing to say to Sukumaran, and that is to rein in her daughter-in-law as she is an Urban Naxal," stated Gopalakrishnan.

Supriya Menon, a former BBC journalist, has been Prithviraj's most steadfast supporter since their marriage in 2011. Recently, she shared an emotional Instagram post praising Prithviraj's dedication and vision for the Malayalam film industry.

"In less than 12 hours, 'Empuraan' will belong to the world," she wrote, adding, "It's been a journey like no other, and I am glad I had a ringside seat!"

Addressing Prithviraj directly, she said: "P @therealprithvi, I've seen the sheer amount of work you've poured into this film-the endless hours spent writing, rewriting, debating, preparing, scouting locations across continents, battling unpredictable weather, and executing a mammoth vision with precision. But through it all, what stands out is the clarity of YOUR vision and leadership."

She pledged her unwavering support, regardless of the outcome. "Whatever happens tomorrow, I will always be behind you, cheering you on as you charge forward towards your goals... You are not Illuminati, my friend, but you are my ahangaari, thaantoni, thandedi husband! I know how much people have ridiculed you and the audacity of your dreams. To all the naysayers, I have only one thing to say: Aalarinjyu Kalikyada!"

Despite the ongoing criticism, 'Empuraan' has emerged as a major success, grossing over ₹200 crore at the box office. However, following the backlash, Mohanlal issued a public apology, while Prithviraj merely shared the statement on social media without adding his own response.

Industry sources have confirmed that, in an effort to pacify critics, the producers have made voluntary edits to the film.

The revised version, expected to be released in the coming days, has reportedly removed a three-minute sequence depicting an attack on a pregnant woman.

Additionally, the villain's name may either be changed or muted in the dialogues to prevent further controversy.