Malayalam actor Prithviraj has spoken for the first time about the controversies surrounding the film Empuraan, the second installment of the popular Lucifer franchise. In an interview with Manorama News, the actor clarified that his participation in the film is not about expressing political views.

Prithviraj revealed that he had shared the script of Empuraan with the lead actor and producer before filming. He said, “If I want to express my politics, I can do it on social media. I am not making this film to express my political opinions.”

The actor, who was also promoting his latest film Vilayat Buddha, said honesty is the key to overcoming fear. Prithviraj said, “If what you say is true then there is no need to fear anyone.” He said that social media is often used as a weapon. He said, “If you express your opinion on political issues, some people will make you a villain, and others will make you a hero. Both are dangerous, so sometimes it’s better not to express your opinion out there.”

Here’s what Prithviraj said about mob mentality and attacks on colleagues

Prithviraj expressed concern over the mentality of the crowd that celebrates mistakes. He said that many people in power, colleagues and victims of mob attacks have shared their ordeal with him. “There are people who have cried when they told me about it,” he said. He criticized those who attack others on social media, saying, “People who attack are finding pleasure in it, even though they know what they are doing is wrong.”

Prithviraj also shared actor Mohanlal’s apology on the Empuraan controversy on social media by adding the hashtag #Empuraan. However, reactions from fans were mixed. A fan commented, “Raju, this was not necessary. Is this really your stance? Disappointing.”

Earlier, Mohanlal addressed the controversy by expressing regret at the trouble caused to the audience. In a Facebook post, he said that both he and the Empuraan team are sincerely sorry for the inconvenience experienced by fans. He wrote, “As an artiste, it is my responsibility to ensure that none of my films promote hatred towards any political movement, ideology or religious group.”

Following the criticism, the filmmakers decided to remove the controversial parts of the film. The edited version will hit theaters soon, in which scenes depicting violence against women and some riot scenes will be removed.