Pushpa 2: Mahesh Babu to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; 7 actors who REJECTED the Allu Arjun starrer action entertainer

Pushpa 2: The Rise helmed by director Sukumar and featuring Allu Arjun in a career-defining role. The film has made an indelible mark on Telugu cinema, gaining widespread acclaim and breaking box office records. The film’s riveting storyline, exceptional performances, and striking visuals captivated audiences across various demographics. Before the final cast was solidified, several prominent actors were approached for key roles, only to ultimately turn down the opportunity. Let’s look at the reasons behind their decisions and consider how their involvement could have impacted the film.

7 actors who rejected Allu Arjun’s Pushpa

Ravi Teja

Often dubbed the Mass Maharaja, Ravi Teja was rumoured to be in consideration for the film’s antagonist role, which eventually went to Fahadh Faasil. Fans eagerly speculated about a potential collaboration, given Ravi Teja’s ability to deliver high-octane performances. Unfortunately, due to prior commitments, he could not join the cast. His unique screen presence could have added significant depth to the character, leaving many fans to ponder how his portrayal might have shaped the film’s development.

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Vijay Deverakonda

There were early discussions regarding Vijay Deverakonda’s involvement in Pushpa, particularly after his surge in popularity following Arjun Reddy. As a rising star, his addition to the cast could have introduced a fresh dynamic. Nevertheless, Vijay opted to pursue a diverse array of roles outside the confines of action-oriented projects. This strategic choice demonstrated his desire to evolve as an actor and explore different narratives rather than be typecast in a single genre.

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Nani

The multifaceted Nani had also been considered for a role in Pushpa. Renowned for his ability to create relatable and nuanced characters, his presence might have significantly altered the film’s tone. However, Nani chose to prioritize projects that aligned more closely with his artistic sensibilities. This decision reflected his commitment to storytelling that resonates with him and has earned him a loyal fan following appreciative of his selective approach to roles.

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Samantha Ruth Prabhu

Samantha was reportedly in discussions for a leading role in the film. Nonetheless, her evolving career trajectory and personal priorities led her to decline. Following successful ventures, she sought to engage in roles that mirror her growth as an actress, often embodying strength and depth. Her absence from Pushpa had a noticeable impact, as her formidable talent could have seamlessly complemented Allu Arjun’s performance and enriched the film’s emotional core.

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Shruti Hassan

Shruti Haasan was another prominent name in early conversations about Pushpa. While she found the script intriguing, competing commitments and interests ultimately led her to step away from the project. Balancing her work across Hindi and South Indian cinema, she prioritized roles that would allow her to showcase her versatility. Her decision underscored the complex choices actors face when navigating their careers and striving for personal fulfilment.

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Vijay Sethupathi

Vijay Sethupathi is renowned for his diverse performances and distinctive selection of roles, having been initially approached as a key character in Pushpa. Acclaimed for his powerful portrayals in films such as Vikram Vedha and Super Deluxe, Sethupathi’s participation could have significantly shifted the film’s dynamic. However, he reportedly declined the role due to scheduling conflicts and a commitment to projects that more closely matched his artistic vision. His absence from Pushpa ignited conversations among fans about the depth and flair he might have brought to the film. Many speculate that his involvement would have introduced an added layer of complexity to the character, thereby enriching the overall narrative.

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Mahesh Babu

Mahesh Babu is one of the top stars celebrated for Srimanthudu and Bharat Ane Nenu and was also considered for a role in Pushpa. Fans were eager at the thought of this superstar partnering with directors Sukumar and Allu Arjun. However, Mahesh Babu ultimately opted to concentrate on his home production and other commitments. The choice to delve into different genres reflects his evolving career. His decision to forgo Pushpa led to considerable speculation about the potential chemistry between the lead actors. Many believe that Mahesh Babu’s charisma and commanding screen presence could have infused fresh energy into the film, creating a captivating dynamic with Allu Arjun’s character.

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The actors who turned down roles in Pushpa each made choices that reflected the intricacies of the film industry. While their absence was significant, the film nonetheless emerged as a monumental success, a testament to the collaborative effort of the cast and crew.

Also Read: From Vikrant Massey to Shah Rukh Khan: 8 Bollywood celebs who took a break from acting