Some fans interpreted the actor-politician's comments as a veiled criticism of Allu Arjun's role in the Sukumar directorial.
Published Aug 11, 2024 | 11:18 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 11, 2024 | 11:19 PM
Pawan Kalyan; Allu Arjun in 'Pushpa: The Rise'. (X)
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan recently sparked debate with his comments on the portrayal of heroes in South Indian cinema.
Speaking alongside Karnataka’s Forest Minister, Eshwar B Khandre, Pawan Kalyan expressed concerns about the shift in how heroes are depicted, which some speculate was a subtle critique of Allu Arjun’s role in Pushpa: The Rise (2021).
Pawan Kalyan reflected on the 1973 Kannada classic Gandhadagudi, where Dr Rajkumar played a forest officer protecting the environment.
He remarked, “Forty years ago, heroes protected forests from poachers and smugglers. Now, heroes are often shown destroying forests and engaging in smuggling.”
He expressed unease with this narrative change, questioning if the industry is sending the right message. “I struggle with the current storytelling trends,” Pawan Kalyan said, adding that he hopes to bring about positive change through his political work.
Allu Arjun in ‘Pushpa: The Rise’. (X)
The actor-politician’s remarks quickly circulated online, with many linking his critique to Allu Arjun’s portrayal of a red sandalwood smuggler in Pushpa: The Rise.
Some fans interpreted his comments as a veiled criticism of Arjun’s role.
However, supporters of Pawan Kalyan argued that his comments addressed broader trends in film rather than targeting any specific individual or film.
As the discussion unfolds, both actors are focused on their upcoming projects. Allu Arjun will reprise his role in the highly anticipated Pushpa: The Rule, set for release on 6 December.
Originally slated for Independence Day, 15 August, the release date was revised, causing some fan tension. The sequel continues the story from Pushpa: The Rise, a major hit released in December 2021.
The Telugu-language film was dubbed into multiple Indian languages and became the highest-grossing film of 2021 in India. It also marked the first time a Telugu actor won the Best Actor award at the National Film Awards.
Meanwhile, Pawan Kalyan is preparing for several releases, including They Call Him OG, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, and Ustaad Bhagat Singh. Despite a break from filming due to his political duties, his return to the screen is eagerly awaited.
(Edited by S Subhakeerthana)
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