Mohanlal Addresses Mammootty’s Health, Sabarimala Prayers in Closing Moments of ‘Empuraan’ Press Meet
During a highly anticipated press meet in Chennai for the upcoming film “Empuraan,” a sequel to the blockbuster “Lucifer,” Superstar Mohanlal addressed widespread speculation regarding his close friend and fellow actor Mammootty’s health. While the majority of the event focused on the film’s production and storyline, the closing moments saw Mohanlal fielding questions about his recent Sabarimala pilgrimage and the leaked receipt of prayers offered for Mammootty.
Prior to Mohanlal’s visit to the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple, rumors about Mammootty’s health had been circulating, causing concern among fans and the film fraternity. The subsequent leak of a ‘vazhipaadu’ (offering) receipt, bearing Mammootty’s birth name “Muhammad Kutty,” further intensified these anxieties. This act of personal devotion by Mohanlal, intended to be private, became a public talking point, highlighting the deep bond between the two actors.
In the closing moments of the “Empuraan” press meet, a reporter inquired about the significance of his Sabarimala visit and the prayers for Mammootty, seeking to understand the context behind the leaked receipt. Mohanlal responded, “Why do I have to say it? I went to Sabarimala and prayed for him, and did the ‘vidi pooja’. If someone from the Devaswom Board releases that receipt, what’s the point of saying it? It’s all very personal. When one person prays for another, why should you tell everyone? Many people say, ‘I will pray for you,’ while talking about other things. If you say you’ll pray, you must pray. He’s my friend, he’s like a brother to me. There’s nothing wrong with me praying for him. When I see you, I also see a Sabarimala swami.”
A follow-up question from another reporter directly addressed the growing concerns about Mammootty’s well-being, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where he also enjoys a massive fan following. “There are many controversies about Mammootty sir’s health. You are his friend, how is he really doing? Did he talk to you?” the reporter asked.
Mohanlal reassured everyone, stating, “He’s fine. That’s all. He had some minor problem, like everyone does. There’s nothing to worry about. Okay, thank you.”
This response effectively dispelled the pre-existing rumors and clarified the context of his Sabarimala prayers, emphasizing the depth of their friendship. It also served to calm the anxieties of fans who had been concerned by the prior speculation.
While the “Empuraan” press meet was primarily focused on the highly anticipated sequel, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, these closing questions became a noteworthy part of the event. The sequel, which follows the events of the blockbuster “Lucifer,” has generated significant excitement among fans.
