Filmmaker Major Ravi Sparks Outrage with Pahalgam Terror Attack Film
AK Raveendran, widely known as Major Ravi in the film industry, is currently facing massive online criticism following his announcement to create a movie based on the tragic Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent military response called Operation Sindoor. The controversy has intensified with rumors suggesting that Malayalam superstar Mohanlal might be collaborating on this sensitive project.
Social Media Announcement Triggers Immediate Backlash
Major Ravi recently took to Facebook to announce his new venture, writing: "Commencing our new project, Pahalgam: Op. Sindoor, with the divine blessings of Mookambika Devi. Jai Hind." This announcement, made public on the social media platform, immediately drew sharp reactions from netizens and film enthusiasts alike.
The proposed film is inspired by the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on 22 April 2025, a recent national tragedy that remains fresh in public memory. According to reports from The Indian Express, the project is tentatively titled Pahalgam: Op. Sindoor.
Mixed Reactions from Fans and Critics
The announcement has divided public opinion, with several distinct concerns emerging from different quarters:
Many critics argue that Major Ravi is attempting to capitalize on personal and national tragedy for commercial gain. They question the ethical implications of making entertainment content from recent traumatic events that affected numerous families.
Meanwhile, a significant portion of Mohanlal's fanbase has expressed strong disappointment about the actor's potential involvement in another Major Ravi project. Their concerns stem from the filmmaker's recent track record at the box office.
One particularly vocal Mohanlal fan didn't mince words on X (formerly Twitter), stating that Major Ravi has served "absolute sh*t" three consecutive times in recent productions. The fan went further by labeling the filmmaker an "idiot" in their social media post.
Growing Pressure on Mohanlal to Withdraw
The backlash has created mounting pressure on Mohanlal to reconsider his association with the project. Multiple fans have taken to social media platforms to directly appeal to the acclaimed actor.
One fan urgently requested Mohanlal to "drop" Major Ravi's project "immediately," while another advised the actor to "open your eyes and see what's happening around you" and avoid being "delusional" about the project's potential reception.
Another concerned supporter suggested it was time for Mohanlal to "rethink" his decision and step back from Pahalgam: Op. Sindoor before committing to the controversial production.
Historical Context of the Collaboration
Major Ravi and Mohanlal share a professional history that dates back to their successful collaboration on the 2006 film Keerthichakra, which proved to be a commercial and critical success. However, the filmmaker's subsequent projects have failed to replicate this achievement.
Several of Major Ravi's recent directorial ventures, including Kurukshetra, Karmayodha, Kandahar and 1971: Beyond Borders, have struggled to win both critical praise and audience approval. This declining trend in his filmography has contributed to the current skepticism surrounding his new project.
The timing of the announcement coincides with Mohanlal's recent recognition at the national level. The actor received the prestigious Dadashabe Falke Award on 23 September 2025 during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony held in New Delhi. Mohanlal, who began his film career in 1980 with Manjil Virinja Pookkal, now faces a critical decision about his involvement in this contentious project.
As the debate continues to unfold across social media platforms and film circles, the entertainment industry watches closely to see how both Major Ravi and Mohanlal will respond to the growing public concern about the ethical and creative merits of making a film about such a recent and painful national tragedy.
