[2][5] On 26 April 2016, four days after the film was released in theatres and online, it was shared publicly on peer-to-peer (torrent) file-sharing websites.

"[7] Subsequently, the film's director, Ranjith, took to his social media account to request a call for action against the culprits.

[8][9][10] Goutham VS critic of Indian Express Limited stated that "This Ranjith film provokes disturbing questions" and gave 3.5 out of 5.

[11] Deepa Soman, critic of Times of india gave 3.5 out of 5 and stated that "The wistful fate of Leela can trigger some tears as the final credits roll, but that wouldn’t take away the fulfilment of watching an eloquent film.

"[12].Onmanorama critic gave 3 out of 5 and wrote that "Leaving these questions to the readers recommending it as a one-time watch"[13] Leela at IMDb