Thiruvananthapuram, India – Amidst attempts by some quarters to stir controversy over an offering made by renowned Malayalam actor Mohanlal for his colleague Mammootty at the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple, Mohanlal has expressed his displeasure over the matter.

The incident came to light when the receipt for the offering was leaked, prompting speculation. Mohanlal clarified that the receipt was made public by some temple officials, and the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the temple, issued a statement confirming that the leak did not originate from their side.

Mohanlal himself confirmed the offering to local media, explaining that he had prayed for Mammootty during his visit to the temple. “He’s like a brother to me. We share everything. Our families are well-connected,” Mohanlal shared, reinforcing the strength of their long-standing friendship. He added that the news of the offering being leaked occurred because “somebody there saw the receipts and published this news.”

Describing the Malayalam film industry as a close-knit community akin to a family, Mohanlal also received support from fellow actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, who is directing Mohanlal’s upcoming project L2: Empuraan. Sukumaran highlighted the strong bond between the two actors, sharing an interesting anecdote. He revealed that Mammootty’s household maintains strict rules, but Mohanlal is the only person allowed to break these rules without consequence, a testament to the trust and closeness they share.

Despite the controversy, both Mohanlal and Mammootty have remained steadfast in their friendship, with their bond continuing to be a source of admiration within the Malayalam film industry.