‘Nedumpally dam’ references cause uproar: Farmers demand cuts in 'Empuraan' over Mullaperiyar link

Chennai: The controversies surrounding the movie L2: Empuraan show no signs of slowing down, with political backlash already taking center stage. Now, a new demand has emerged from a section of Tamil Nadu farmers, who are calling for the removal of references to the 'Mullaperiyar Dam' in the film. The farmers claim that the fictional dam in the movie referred to as the “Nedumpally Dam” is an indirect reference to the Mullaperiyar, and they have demanded the removal of certain dialogues that they believe could escalate tensions between Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Balasingam, the coordinator of the Periyar Vaigai Irrigation Farmers Association, expressed concerns that the portrayal of the dam in the film could stir unnecessary controversy. “The movie suggests that if the dam is damaged, Kerala will be submerged. It also includes dialogues claiming auxiliary dams are useless and that a concrete dam is unnecessary. These references should be muted,” Balasingam said, urging immediate action to address the issue.

The Tamil Nadu farmers' organisation has warned that they will intensify their protest if action is not taken promptly.

The controversy surrounding L2: Empuraan isn't limited to the portrayal of the fictional dam. The film, which is a sequel to the successful Lucifer, has already been embroiled in protests over scenes that allegedly symbolise the Gujarat riots, with political parties calling for a boycott and demanding cuts. In response to the outrage, lead actor Mohanlal issued an apology, and the filmmakers have decided to make 17 cuts to the movie.

Released on March 27, L2: Empuraan initially received a warm reception from moviegoers but was quickly surrounded by controversy. Directed by actor Prithviraj, the film has been released worldwide, and the re-edited version will be available soon, following the proposed cuts. The filmmakers remain optimistic that these adjustments will help resolve the ongoing issues and address the concerns of various groups.