Mohanlal's prayer at Sabarimala for Mammootty stirs controversy

In a recent controversy, acclaimed actor Mohanlal found himself at the center of a debate after offering prayers at the Sabarimala temple for fellow Malayalam superstar Mammootty, who is a Muslim. Critics have called for an apology if the prayer, known as a 'puja,' was requested by Mammootty himself.

The incident occurred on March 18, when Mohanlal, in the midst of promoting his upcoming film 'L2: Empuraan', visited Sabarimala to offer prayers reportedly for Mammootty's health.

During the "Usha puja," a note was given to the temple priest bearing Mammootty's birth name, Muhammed Kutty, and his birth star, 'Vishakham'. A receipt from the Devaswom office, validating this, went viral, sparking discussions on social media. While some commended it as a gesture of communal harmony, others deemed it inappropriate under Islamic tenets.

O. Abdullah, a noted influencer and former editor of the 'Madhyamam' newspaper, urged Mammootty to publicly apologize if he solicited the act, citing that Islamic law mandates exclusive worship to Allah.

Mohanlal, who maintains a strong camaraderie with Mammootty despite long-standing professional competition, dismissed the controversy.

In a recent interview he reaffirmed that prayers are a personal matter and reiterated that the puja was intended for Mammootty's wellbeing following a minor health scare. "Fortunately, or unfortunately, it came out," Mohanlal remarked regarding the publicity.

Joining Mohanlal in the interview, filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran mentioned that such gestures are not new, although they have not previously made headlines. Mohanlal expressed his deep friendship with Mammootty, noting their frequent collaboration on over 50 films and their regular personal interactions.

In addressing the leak of the receipt, Mohanlal hinted at a possible breach by an official from the Travancore Devaswom Board, which oversees the Sabarimala temple. The Board has since refuted any wrongdoing, suggesting the leak was from the devotee's copy of the receipt.

As the prayer continues to be a topic of public interest, Mammootty's camp has dispelled rumors regarding the actor's health, including unfounded cancer claims. Clarifications were made that Mammootty is currently on a break observing Ramadan, with filming schedules temporarily on hold.