Star-Power

Hyderabad horror: Pushpa 2 launch ends in chaos, Allu Arjun faces police arrest

 

Telugu superstar Allu Arjun has been arrested by Hyderabad police in connection with a tragic stampede during the December 4 premiere of Pushpa 2: The Rule at Sandhya Theatre. The incident resulted in the death of 35-year-old Revathi and injuries to her nine-year-old son. Thousands of fans had gathered at the theatre to catch a glimpse of the actor, whose sudden arrival with his personal security team triggered chaos. Witnesses reported fans surging forward to get closer to the star, leading to a stampede inside the theatre.

Revathi and her son were also caught in the fracas. She died at Durgabai Deshmukh Hospital while her son was still admitted to the hospital. The Hyderabad police have placed the blame on the mishap on poor crowd control and negligence in the implementation of safety measures during the high-profile event. 

 

Police Action and Arrests

 

Three other people connected with the management of the Sandhya Theatre, in which Allu Arjun has an interest, have also been taken into custody. Among those arrested are theatre owner M. Sandeep, senior manager M. Nagaraju, and security supervisor Gandhakam Vijay Chander. They are charged under the Indian Penal Code with sections such as section 105 (right of private defence of property), section 118(1) (concealing plans to commit an offence punishable with death or life imprisonment) and section 3(5) of BNS. 

According to ANI sources: “Actor Allu Arjun has been being taken for medical examination from Chikkadpally police station in Hyderabad. He was brought to Chikkadpally police station in Hyderabad for questioning in connection with the case of death of a woman at Sandhya Theatre on December 4.”

 

Allu Arjun’s Opinion on the Tragedy 

 

In response to the incident, Allu Arjun responded with a video stating that he was extremely sorrowful and also offered condolences to the family of Revathi. “I am heartbroken by the incident that happened during the premiere. My heartfelt condolences go out to Revathi’s family, and I pray for the speedy recovery of her son,” he said. The actor pledged to give Rs 25 lakh to the family, which he said was to help the family during this tough period.

 

Record-Breaking Success of Pushpa 2 

 

Despite the tragedy, Pushpa 2: The Rule, directed by Sukumar has gained popularity and was released on December 5, 2024. The movie featuring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil, has crossed the Rs 800 crore mark at the box office in four days and it has become one of the highest-grossing hit Indian movies of all time.