Pushpa 2: The Rule, the Allu Arjun starrer directed by Sukumar, finally hit the theaters on December 5, 2024. However, the movie failed to impress audiences with Fahadh Faasil's characterization as Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat. Netizens now suggest that the actor was equally unhappy with his role in the film, and conveyed the same in an interview earlier. A video clip from Fahadh Faasil's interview with senior journalist Anupama Chopra for Film Companion has gone viral on social media, where the National Award-winning actor stated that the Pushpa sequel has not done anything for him as an artist.
Fahadh Faasil's words suggest that he was aware of how the audiences would react to his characterization in Pushpa 2. The cinephiles, especially the Malayalam cinema audiences, are unhappy with the arc of Fahadh Faasil's character Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat in the film. Many feel that it was a disservice to a seasoned actor like him. The lack of a strong antagonist has clearly made Pushpa 2 a mere one-man show of protagonist Allu Arjun. According to reports, Fahadh Faasil has decided not to be a part of Pushpa 3: The Rampage, the upcoming third installment of Allu Arjun and Sukumar's franchise.
Although Pushpa 2 has not confirmed if Fahadh Faasil's character Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat ended with the second part, the makers introduced a new antagonist in the film's climax. As per reports, Fahadh Faasil plans to focus solely on author-backed, performance-oriented roles and has decided to cut down on supporting roles. This move is likely to be welcomed by his fans, who appreciate his dedication to delivering powerful performances.
Fahadh Faasil's honest take on Pushpa 2: The Rule has sparked a conversation about the importance of well-crafted characters in films. As the actor moves forward with his career, fans can expect to see him in more meaningful roles that showcase his exceptional talent.