Rajput Leader Warns Pushpa 2 Makers for Insulting Kshatriyas with ‘Shekhawat,’ Threatens Producer
"Remove Shekhawat , producer of the movie will be thrashed soon." : Karni Sainik's to Pushpa 2, Producers for Alleged Insult
Rajput leader warns of consequences over negative portrayal of the ‘Shekhawat’ name, sparking controversy
The makers of Pushpa 2: The Rule are facing backlash from Rajput leader Raj Shekhawat, who has accused the film of disrespecting the Kshatriya community. The controversy stems from the portrayal of a negative character named Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, played by Fahadh Faasil. The Rajput leader has demanded that the filmmakers remove the name “Shekhawat” from the movie, threatening severe consequences if his demands are not met.
पुष्पा 2 फ़िल्म मे “शेखावत” का नेगेटिव किरदार, फिर से क्षत्रियों का अपमान, तैयार रहे करणी सैनिक, जल्द फ़िल्म निर्माता की ठुकाई की जाएगी। @aajtak @ABPNews @ZeeNews @VtvGujarati @BBCBreaking @CNNnews18 @timesofindia @TimesNow @htTweets @EconomicTimes @FinancialTimes @JagranNews… pic.twitter.com/vsbm2r3OLL
— Dr. Raj Shekhawat (@IAMRAJSHEKHAWAT) December 8, 2024
Leader’s Threats and Allegations
Raj Shekhawat took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to voice his anger. He wrote, “Pushpa 2 movie has a negative role of ‘Shekhawat,’ again insulting Kshatriyas. Karni Sainiks, be ready. The producer of the movie will be thrashed soon.”
In a subsequent video message, Shekhawat elaborated on his concerns, alleging that the use of the name “Shekhawat” in a negative context demeans the Kshatriya community. He accused the film industry of repeatedly targeting Kshatriyas under the guise of creative freedom and warned of severe repercussions if his demands were not addressed.
“The makers should remove the continuous use of ‘Shekhawat’ from the movie. If not, the Karni Sena will retaliate strongly, even thrashing them at their homes. We will go to any limits as required to protect our community’s honor,” he said.
About Pushpa 2: The Rule
Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers and Muttamsetty Media, Pushpa 2 has been a colossal success since its release. Starring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil, the film has shattered several box office records.
• On its opening day, the film amassed ₹294 crore globally, surpassing previous records held by Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan and S.S. Rajamouli’s RRR.
• It achieved the biggest domestic opening ever, breaking RRR’s ₹156 crore record.
Allu Arjun, who reprises his role as Pushpa Raj, gained critical acclaim and a National Film Award for his performance in the first installment of the franchise. The sequel continues the story of power struggles in the red sandalwood smuggling trade.
Community vs. Creative Freedom
The controversy raises broader questions about the portrayal of communities in cinema. While filmmakers argue for artistic freedom, community leaders like Raj Shekhawat view such portrayals as disrespectful and harmful to their identity.
The Pushpa franchise, known for its gripping narrative and powerful performances, now finds itself at the intersection of artistic expression and cultural sensitivity. Whether the filmmakers will respond to Shekhawat’s demands or stand by their creative decisions remains to be seen.
