Allu Arjun Questioned Over Tragic Stampede at 'Pushpa 2' Screening

Actor Allu Arjun appeared at Chikkadpally Police Station in Hyderabad today, responding to police questioning over the tragic stampede that occurred during the screening of his film Pushpa 2 at Sandhya Theatre on December 4. The incident claimed the life of a young mother and left her nine-year-old son critically injured.

The 41-year-old actor, who was arrested last week in dramatic circumstances from his Jubilee Hills residence, was released on interim bail by the Telangana High Court. The court cited his right to liberty and rebuked the police for their handling of the arrest, which reportedly involved officers entering his bedroom as he was changing. A lower court had initially remanded the actor to 14 days of judicial custody before the High Court intervened.

The stampede has sparked a blame game between the police and the actor's team. Police allege that Allu Arjun’s unannounced arrival at the theatre caused chaos, as fans rushed to catch a glimpse of the star. Reports also suggest the actor waved to the crowd from the sunroof of his car, further fueling the frenzy.

Allu Arjun, however, denied the accusations. “It wasn’t a roadshow or a procession. I simply waved at fans and entered the theatre. No police officer asked me to leave. In fact, my manager informed me about the uncontrollable crowd and urged me to exit the premises,” he told reporters.

The police, along with the theatre's owner and staff, have been accused of negligence. All have been charged with culpable homicide not amounting to murder. While Allu Arjun’s camp released a letter countering claims of mismanagement, CCTV footage emerged showing police escorting the actor from the theatre's rear exit after the incident.

The tragedy has divided public opinion. Protesters, including university students, gathered outside Allu Arjun's residence over the weekend, vandalizing parts of the compound and throwing tomatoes in anger.

In the midst of the controversy, the family of the deceased woman has shown remarkable grace. Her husband told NDTV he does not blame the actor for the tragedy and is willing to withdraw the case. He expressed gratitude for the support extended by Allu Arjun, who announced a ₹25 lakh financial aid for the family. The producers of Pushpa 2: The Rise have pledged an additional ₹50 lakh.

The heartbreaking incident has cast a shadow over the film’s release, leaving a somber note amidst the glitz of the entertainment industry.