Pushpa 2: The Rule has made a significant mark in the Indian film industry by emerging as one of the highest-grossing Indian movies of all time. This Telugu-language sequel to 2021’s Pushpa: The Rise stars Allu Arjun in the titular role of a sandalwood smuggler. Despite facing fierce opposition from Indian Police Service superintendent Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, played by Fahadh Faasil, he endeavors to sustain his business. The movie also features Rashmika Mandanna, Jagadeesh Prathap Bandari, Jagapathi Babu, and Sunil in its cast.
In early December 2024, Pushpa 2: The Rule had an outstanding debut, achieving the highest-grossing opening day for an Indian movie in India. According to The Numbers, it has now amassed a remarkable $154.6 million worldwide. Although this amount is dwarfed by the earnings of Hollywood giants like Deadpool & Wolverine, which grossed $1.34 billion, within the Indian cinema realm, it holds a lofty position. It stands as the third highest-grossing Indian movie ever and is the top earner of the current decade, surpassing movies such as Kalki 2898 AD, Animal, KGF: Chapter 2, as well as Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan and Pathaan. Even the Oscar-winning RRR has been outperformed by it in terms of box office receipts.
However, box office success doesn’t always translate to awards recognition. Pushpa 2: The Rule hasn’t received nominations from major awards like the Golden Globes or the Critics Choice Awards so far. It also didn’t make the shortlist for the Academy Award for International Feature. India’s official submission was Laapataa Ladies, which also missed out on the shortlist.
Nonetheless, the box office triumph of Pushpa 2: The Rule showcases the franchise’s potential on a global scale. In North America, it debuted at No. 4, easily outshining the new English-language release Y2K during that weekend. This could just be the start of a major box office IP. With the movie hinting at a follow-up titled Pushpa 3: The Rampage, it’s evident that the franchise has no intention of losing steam and is set to continue its successful run in the foreseeable future.
Overall, while it might not be making waves in the awards circuit currently, Pushpa 2: The Rule has firmly established itself as a force in the world of Indian cinema and is well on its way to building a significant global franchise.
Related content: