Rajput leader Raj Shekhawat on Sunday issued a stern warning to the producers of Pushpa 2: The Rule, accusing the film of disrespecting the Kshatriya community by portraying the antagonist with the surname “Shekhawat.” Taking to social media platform X, Shekhawat declared, “Pushpa 2 movie has a negative role of ‘Shekhawat.’ Again, insult to Kshatriyas. Karni Sainiks, be ready. The producer of the movie will be thrashed soon.”
In the film, actor Fahadh Faasil reprises his role as Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, a police officer-turned-antagonist. Shekhawat expressed outrage, claiming the repeated use of the Shekhawat name in a negative context is a deliberate affront to the community.
In a video statement, Shekhawat alleged, “The movie has done a grave insult to Kshatriyas. The Shekhawat community has been presented in a poor light. This industry has been insulting the Kshatriyas in the name of freedom of speech, and they have done it again.” He further demanded that the filmmakers remove the word “Shekhawat” from the movie.
Warning of severe consequences, Shekhawat added, “If the makers do not remove the word, the Karni Sena will thrash them inside their homes and will go to any lengths as required.”
Pushpa 2’s Record-Breaking Run
Despite the controversy, Pushpa 2 has set the box office ablaze since its release on Thursday. Starring Allu Arjun, the film earned a staggering ₹294 crore globally on its opening day, breaking several records. It surpassed Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan to become the highest-opening Hindi-language film and outdid RRR’s ₹156 crore domestic record.
Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers and Muttamsetty Media, the film sees Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil return as Pushpa Raj, Srivalli, and Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, respectively.
The Pushpa franchise, which explores power struggles rooted in red sandalwood smuggling, has garnered widespread acclaim. Allu Arjun, who won the National Film Award for his performance in the first installment, continues to dominate the screen with his portrayal of the titular character.
While Pushpa 2 enjoys critical and commercial success, the allegations from Raj Shekhawat and the Karni Sena’s threats have added a contentious twist to the film’s journey. The producers are yet to respond to the controversy.