‘Pushpa 2’ Tokyo Promotions Without Rashmika
The leading lady’s absence has raised eyebrows
Allu Arjun is in Tokyo with his family for the January 16 release of Pushpa 2: The Rule. However, his co-star Rashmika Mandanna, who played a key role in the film’s success, is notably absent from the promotional events. The omission has sparked questions within the industry, with some pointing to possible gender bias.
“Even if she were merely decorative —which she wasn’t — why exclude the heroine while introducing the film to a new market?” said a female colleague of Mandanna. Sources, however, cite financial reasons.
According to insiders, the producers could not cover Mandanna’s travel and stay, while Allu Arjun reportedly paid for his own family’s expenses. The explanation has surprised many, given the film’s reported Rs1,800-crore box-office haul.
