Malayalam actor Mohanlal has become the target of a cyberattack following a social media post in which he praised the Indian Army’s retaliation after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
The post, referencing Operation Sindoor, described sindoor (vermillion) as a symbol of tradition and unwavering resolve, representing the indomitable spirit of Indians who, when challenged, rise with greater strength.

Mixed reactions flood social media

The post triggered polarising reactions online. While several users supported Mohanlal, others launched sharp criticism. Among the mocking responses, one comment sarcastically asked if he had found a new plot for a film showcasing Hindus massacring Masood Azhar, “who struggles to earn a livelihood by doing terrorism.”

Critics also accused Mohanlal of whitewashing terrorism through cinema. Some remarks lauded the Indian armed forces’ strike on Lashkar-e-Taiba—the group with which the fictional character Khureshi, portrayed by Mohanlal in L2: Empuraan, is associated. These comments further targeted actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran, who helmed the Lucifer and L2: Empuraan film series.

Ongoing controversy linked to film series

The backlash is seen as part of a broader controversy surrounding L2: Empuraan. The film had earlier drawn criticism from pro-Hindutva groups, who referred to remarks regarding the 2002 Gujarat riots as the basis for their attack.