Since its release in 2021, the Pushpa franchise has emerged as one of the most celebrated film series post-pandemic, garnering commercial success and prestigious accolades. However, behind the scenes, several prominent stars were approached for pivotal roles in the franchise but ultimately turned down the opportunity. Let’s delve into the stars who declined roles in the blockbuster franchise:
1. Mahesh Babu
Initially approached for the role of the protagonist portrayed by Allu Arjun, Mahesh Babu declined the offer. Reportedly, he was uncomfortable playing a transformative character that eventually took on shades of a villainous role.
2. Samantha Ruth Prabhu
While Samantha featured in Pushpa for a song which gained a lot of popularity called ‘Oo Antava’, she was initially offered a lead role as Srivalli. However, Samantha declined the offer, expressing reluctance to portray a rural character and that is why the role went to Rashmika.
3. Disha Patani
Disha Patani was approached for a prominent track, ‘Oo Antava’, to share the screen space with Allu Arjun. However, for undisclosed reasons, Disha backed out, and the role eventually went to Samantha Ruth Prabhu.
4. Vijay Sethupathi
Offered a key role as IPS SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat in Pushpa, Vijay Sethupathi declined due to the character’s negative portrayal in the film. He expressed a desire to avoid typecasting as an antagonist, leading to the role ultimately going to Malayalam star Fahadh Faasil.
Check out the trailer of Pushpa 2: The Rule
Despite these initial setbacks, the Pushpa franchise went on to achieve immense success, with Allu Arjun and Devi Sri Prasad receiving National Awards for their contributions to the film. Now, with the sequel, Pushpa 2: The Rule, in the making, anticipation is high for another blockbuster hit. Scheduled for release on 15th August 2024, Pushpa 2: The Rule promises to continue the gripping narrative and adrenaline-pumping action that captivated audiences in the first instalment.