Pushpa 2: The Rule
Pushpa 2: The Rule is a 2024 Indian Telugu-language action drama film directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers in collaboration with Sukumar Writings. The film stars Allu Arjun in the lead role, alongside Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, Jagapathi Babu, Dhananjaya, Rao Ramesh, Sunil, and Anasuya Bharadwaj. It serves as the second installment in the *Pushpa* series, following the 2021 blockbuster *Pushpa: The Rise*. The story continues the journey of Pushpa Raj, a laborer turned red sandalwood smuggler, as he battles mounting opposition from law enforcement, led by officer Shekhawat, to sustain his empire.
The sequel was officially announced just before the release of the first film in December 2021. Initially titled *Pushpa 2*, the subtitle *The Rule* was revealed in August 2022. While 10% of the film’s footage was shot during the production of the original, significant changes to the storyline prompted principal photography to begin in October 2022. The film features music by Devi Sri Prasad, cinematography by Mirosław Kuba Brożek, and editing by Naveen Nooli. With a budget of ₹400–500 crore, it stands among the most expensive Indian films ever made. At 200 minutes, it is also one of the longest films in Indian cinema.
Released worldwide on December 5, 2024, in multiple formats including IMAX, 4DX, D-Box, and PVR ICE, *Pushpa 2: The Rule* shattered numerous box-office records. Within twelve days, it grossed between ₹1,274 crore (US$150 million) and ₹1,414 crore (US$170 million) globally, making it the highest-grossing Indian film of the year, the second-highest-grossing film in India, the second-highest-grossing Telugu film, and the third-highest-grossing Indian film of all time.