Bhubaneswar: Sukumar’s much-anticipated film, ‘Pushpa: The Rule’, featuring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, and others reprising their roles, has hit a temporary roadblock as shooting has been postponed until the second week of December. The film’s team recently commenced a new schedule at the Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, focusing on crucial scenes.
The first look of the film showcased Allu Arjun in a striking jatara get-up, hinting at the cultural nuances to be explored in the sequel. However, the shooting schedule took an unexpected turn as Allu Arjun, dressed in the jatara attire for a song and fight sequence, experienced severe back pain. Despite his determination to continue, director Sukumar prioritized the actor’s health and decided to take a break.
As per a Hindustan Times report, Allu Arjun’s team confirmed the delay, explaining that the actor’s back pain was a result of the demanding costume and intense scenes. The shooting is expected to resume once Allu Arjun fully recuperates, ensuring a seamless continuation of the production.
The androgynous avatar unveiled in the first-look poster raised eyebrows, with Allu Arjun adorned in body paint, a pattu saree, earrings, bangles, and rings. This unique look represents Gangamma thalli, whose annual jatara takes place in Tirupathi. The inspiration for this avatar stems from the lyrics of “Daakko Daakko Meka,” referencing animal sacrifices made in honor of Gangamma thalli.
Sukumar’s ‘Pushpa: The Rise’, released in December 2021, garnered widespread acclaim, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the sequel. Allu Arjun portrayed the character of Pushpa, a former daily wage worker turned red sanders smuggler aspiring to build his empire. Rashmika Mandanna played Srivalli, his love interest, while Fahadh Faasil essayed the role of Bhanwar Singh Shekawat, the formidable police officer in pursuit.
‘Pushpa: The Rule’ is slated for release on August 15, 2024.
