Films like Thalappavu and Vilapangalkkappuram once sparked important conversations without triggering widespread outrage. But with the release of Empuraan, a shift seems evident. The film, which includes a depiction of the Gujarat riots, has been met with fierce criticism from groups like the RSS and BJP, prompting lead actor Mohanlal to publicly apologize and confirm that scenes were edited to address concerns. This stands in stark contrast to earlier political films that addressed similarly sensitive themes but escaped such intense scrutiny.

Critics and filmmakers suggest that the current political climate plays a key role in this change. Veteran critic V.K. Joseph argues that certain groups are now more actively trying to suppress political discourse in art, particularly when it challenges dominant narratives. In the past, even politically charged films like Left Right Left and Thankamani managed to fly under the radar without national-level protests. Madhupal, who directed Thalappavu, recalls how, though there were disagreements back then, there was still space for dialogue. Today, however, filmmakers face a far more hostile environment that leaves little room for nuance or dissent.

This trend isn't isolated to Kerala. Across India, films that portray controversial episodes like the 2002 Gujarat riots-such as Firaaq, Parzania, and Bombay-have faced bans, protests, or forced edits. As Joseph points out, part of the backlash to Empuraan could also stem from its wide promotional campaign and pan-India audience reach. Younger generations unfamiliar with these historical incidents might find the content jarring, especially when it disrupts the dominant political narratives. The Empuraan controversy illustrates how the landscape for political cinema is evolving, with artistic freedom often clashing against increasing political sensitivities.