Actor-filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran finds himself at the centre of a fresh storm, this time not for his creative work but for financial scrutiny. The Income Tax Department has reportedly issued the Lucifer director a notice concerning income declarations related to three of his 2022 co-productions—Kaduva, Gold, and Jana Gana Mana.

Sources reveal that instead of drawing a traditional acting fee for these films, Prithviraj opted to take compensation as a co-producer. His earnings from the trio of projects are estimated to be around ₹40 crore. The IT department has asked him to provide complete disclosures, with a response deadline set for April 29.

“Part Of Routine Assessments”, State IT Officials

While officials have called the notice part of routine assessments, the timing has raised eyebrows, especially with Prithviraj’s much-anticipated directorial, L2: Empuraan, currently facing political backlash. The film, a follow-up to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer, has drawn criticism from certain right-wing groups for its alleged references to communal violence.

The controversy prompted the makers to submit a revised version of the film with 24 voluntary cuts, including a character name change and the removal of a few politically sensitive scenes. Lead actor Mohanlal later issued a public statement, clarifying that neither he nor the team intended to hurt religious or political sentiments.

The situation intensified when the Enforcement Directorate conducted raids on offices linked to Gokulam Gopalan, one of Empuraan’s producers. This development, coupled with the IT notice, has led to speculation online that the filmmaker is being targeted for the film’s narrative choices.

L2: Empuraan Continues Its Box Office Dominance

Despite the furore, L2: Empuraan has maintained strong box office momentum, grossing over ₹200 crore globally by the end of March. Packed theatres and positive audience reception suggest that the controversies have only heightened public interest. The film now reigns as the highest-grossing film in Malayalam cinema history.

As legal and political debates continue to swirl around the film, Prithviraj remains focused on steering the Lucifer universe forward. Whether the recent developments will affect the production of Empuraan or its successor remains to be seen—but for now, the filmmaker seems to have both the spotlight and the support of his fans.

See Also: The Title Of L2: Empuraan’s Sequel Revealed!