Just four days after its Netflix release, Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded) has become a global sensation, breaking records and sparking conversations worldwide. Directed by Sukumar and starring Allu Arjun, the Telugu action-drama has climbed to the number-one spot in seven countries and secured second place in Netflix’s global Non-English Movies category with 5.8 million views. Its high-octane action and Allu Arjun’s performance have left international audiences hooked.
The film’s mix of intense action, drama, and cultural flair has struck a chord with audiences well beyond India. One scene that has taken the internet by storm is the Jathara sequence, where Allu Arjun, draped in a saree, delivers a powerful dance before launching into an adrenaline-pumping fight. This merge of bold cultural flair and high-energy action has become the talk of the globe, with audiences both awed by its audacity and questioning its over-the-top execution. While some praised its creativity, calling it “better than modern US movies,” others questioned its physics-defying stunts, with comments like, “How does he fly so high without wings?”
Even with the mixed reactions, the film’s narrative and striking visuals have won widespread praise, with some international fans even comparing it to Hollywood blockbusters. One user stated, “Marvel has been lacking this creativity. They have the budget.” Another quipped, “India’s just showing off at this point, treating fight scenes like an art form.”
The film’s success isn’t just limited to its action sequences, though. Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of Srivalli and Fahadh Faasil’s menacing performance as the antagonist have added a lot of depth and layers to the story. The reloaded version, with 23 minutes of additional footage, has further amplified its appeal, offering a richer cinematic experience.
Pushpa 2: The Rule has not only shattered box office records, grossing over ₹1800 crore worldwide, but it is also changing how Indian cinema is viewed globally. The Netflix release has opened doors to a wider audience, proving that people are welcoming and accepting different kinds of cinema, transcending borders. As the film continues to dominate streaming charts, it’s clear that Pushpa 2 is turning into what we can call a cultural phenomenon. With its own unique approach and broad appeal, Pushpa 2 has set a new benchmark for Indian cinema on the global stage. Whether loved or critiqued, it’s undeniable that the film has left a mark across the world, sparking discussions and perhaps redefining what action cinema can be.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.