Amidst a swirling controversy surrounding alleged strict protocols for meeting Allu Arjun, his Pushpa 2 co-star, Rajsekhar Aningi, has stepped forward to defend the actor. The debate ignited after a brand strategist, Kaveri Baruah, claimed on the "Sweekriti Talks" podcast that she was presented with a list of 42 "dos and don'ts" before meeting Arjun. These purported rules included instructions such as "don't look into sir's eyes" and "don't shake hands".
The claims quickly went viral, sparking a wave of reactions across social media. Critics labeled the alleged rules as "egotistical", while some fans defended them as standard practice for stars of Arjun's stature. Allu Arjun's team swiftly responded to the uproar, issuing a statement denying the allegations and announcing that they would pursue legal action against those spreading misinformation. They asserted that the actor has always conducted himself with "dignity, humility, and respect".
Rajsekhar Aningi, who played Subba Reddy in Pushpa: The Rise and Pushpa 2: The Rule, has now added his voice to the defense. In a video shared on social media, Aningi condemned what he called "fake propaganda" against Allu Arjun. "Having acted alongside him in #pushpa, I can vouch for his character," he stated. "He is a true gentleman on set. These 'rules' rumors are purely for cheap publicity. Don't believe them! We stand with the Icon Star!".
Aningi further elaborated on his experience working with Allu Arjun, sharing an example of the actor's down-to-earth nature. "During break times, production boys pass around snacks in basins. Artists like me have assistants, spot boys, who bring the snacks to us separately. But he's the kind to not think twice about eating from the basin with the spot boys". He expressed skepticism that someone who interacts so comfortably with all members of the crew would impose such stringent rules. "So, it's hard to believe a person like that will keep others away and have a list of 42 dos and don'ts, like you can't meet his eye or give a handshake," Aningi explained. He emphasized that Arjun "is the kind to wish every artist and technician as soon as he comes on set," and if he misses someone, he apologizes. "He has that dignity and grace. More than a hero, he's a down-to-earth artist".
The administrator of the podcast channel where the initial claims surfaced has since removed the video, citing threats and online harassment directed at the guest. They stated the guest holds a "responsible position in a reputed organisation" and they did not want the individual's career to be affected.
The controversy unfolds as Allu Arjun continues to ride a wave of popularity following the success of the Pushpa franchise. Pushpa 2: The Rule, the sequel, has generated considerable buzz.