Allu Arjun Vs Pawan Kalyan: Pushpa Producer On Powerstar's 'Cinema Glorifying Smugglers' Remark

Recently, netizens have been debating over Pawan Kalyan and Allu Arjun's alleged rift and the controversy surrounding the families. The dispute began during the Andhra Pradesh elections but got heated when Pawan Kalyan made a comment about South Indian films "glorifying smugglers". Many on the internet interpreted those comments as a subtle dig at Allu Arjun’s character, Pushpa Raj, from the Pushpa franchise. However, the producer of Pushpa 2, Ravi Shankar addressed the issue at a press conference while explaining his thoughts on Pawan Kalyan's remarks.

What Pawan Kalyan said about film characters in Tollywood

Earlier this month, Pawan Kalyan spoke about his collaboration with Karnataka's Forest Minister, Eshwar B Khandre, during his visit to Bengaluru. While addressing the media, he reflected on Dr Rajkumar’s 1973 Kannada film Gandhada Gudi, noting the shift in the portrayal of heroes over the years.

He pointed out that while heroes in films 40 years ago protected forests, some modern heroes are now involved in deforestation and illegal activities. He stated, "Around 40 years ago, a hero was someone who safeguarded the forest. Now, a hero is someone who cuts down the forest and is a smuggler. In today's cinema, which I’m part of, I struggle with this, because are we sending the right message?" Pawan added, “A cultural shift has occurred, which is interesting. What I couldn't achieve in reel life, I hope to accomplish in real life through politics.”

Netizens believed that it was a dig at Allu Arjun’s character, Pushpa Raj.

Producer of Pushpa 2 comments on the situation

Ravi Shankar attended a press conference in Hyderabad to promote the sequel of Mathu Vadalara. During the conference, when asked about Pawan Kalyan’s alleged comments on the film, he clarified that Pawan Kalyan was speaking in a different context, and people misunderstood it as a remark about the movie. Ravi emphasized that Pawan Kalyan, given his stature, would not say anything negative that could harm the film industry and that his comments were unrelated to Pushpa.

The producer also addressed rumours of a delay, confirming that Pushpa 2: The Rule, the sequel to Pushpa: The Rise, will be released in theatres on 6th December. He mentioned that the film is progressing well, with work on the second half expected to be completed by the end of September, ensuring its readiness for release by November. Despite the ongoing speculation, he assured that the release date is final.