PUSHPA 2: The Fire that Liberated the Beast in Sukumar

Exactly 20 years ago, the Telugu film industry witnessed a game-changing modern love story, 'Arya', crafted by debutant director Sukumar. Since then, this mathematics master has brought a calculated yet unique approach to his writings. From the adrenaline-fueled youth drama 'Jagadam' to the genuine lover in 'Arya 2', the cost of an ego clash in '100% Love', the haunting childhood of a superstar in '1 Nenokkadine', and the son's quest for revenge in 'Nannaku Prematho', each film showcased Sukumar's distinctive storytelling. Even 'Rangasthalam', with its innocent rebel fighting oppression, was a testament to his creative genius.

However, despite his innovative storytelling, Sukumar's writings were often restrained by his background as a Maths and Physics teacher that adhere to some social norms and logical barriers. Even his confrontation scenes relied on intense dialogue, avoiding violence. While audiences were entertained, awards were won, and records were broken, the beast within Sukumar remained tamed for two decades.

Then came 'Pushpa', a film that ignited a fire on screens, liberating an impersonation of Sukumar. With 'Pushpa', Sukumar infused rawness into his writing, crafting a hero who embodied the spirit of a downtrodden, ambitious, rebellious, and proud laborer who just refuses to bow down. The fire raged into a wildfire with 'Pushpa 2', as originality merged with meticulous characterization and cinematic brilliance.

Sukumar knows no bounds, just like Pushpa. The rustic nature he had been nurturing was finally unleashed through Pushpa Raj, shaking the entire nation. Even his fans are in awe, stunned by the wildness, exaggerations, and extremities Sukumar explored in 'Pushpa 2', creating history in the process.

Rajamouli once acknowledged Sukumar as one of the only two directors capable of creating mayhem with mass commercial cinema once he refuses to obey the restraint just like Pushpa Raj. That prophecy has been fulfilled, with Jakkanna's records shattered, and the beast within Sukumar finally unleashed.