As the release of Pushpa 2: The Rule inches closer, Malayali fans of Telugu superstar Allu Arjun are in a frenzy of celebration and anticipation. For his admirers in Kerala, “Aallu Arjun” is not just an actor but an emotion, a symbol of hope, positivity, and sheer cinematic joy. Fans laud him as a “brother figure” whose films inspire courage and offer a sense of belonging.
A Personal Connection with the Icon Star-Pushpa 2
For fans like Sujith Thomas from Sulthan Bathery, Allu Arjun is more than a screen idol; he is a beacon of hope and resilience. Sujith, a Public Service Commission aspirant, has adorned his body with 32 tattoos dedicated to the actor. He recounts how Arjun’s on-screen persona helped him navigate bullying and self-esteem issues stemming from his cleft palate and lip. “He feels like the elder brother I never had,” Sujith shares, adding that Arjun’s films have been therapeutic for him.
Similarly, Melvin TS, a wheelchair-bound lottery ticket seller, credits Allu Arjun’s movies for motivating him to overcome challenges with a smile. Watching Happy as a schoolboy instilled in him a belief that he could achieve anything. “Allu Arjun’s characters embody bravery and positivity, which resonate deeply with me,” he says.
A Growing Fanbase
The fervor for Allu Arjun in Kerala is unparalleled for a non-Malayali actor. The Allu Arjun Fans Welfare Association (AFWA), formed in 2006, now boasts over one lakh registered members across Kerala. The association organizes fan shows, charity drives, and even coordinates visits to Hyderabad to meet the actor. With Pushpa 2 set for release on December 5, over 100 fan shows, including a 4 a.m. screening, have been planned across the state.
A Legacy of Inspiration
The love for Allu Arjun extends to younger fans like Fasil Mannarkkad, who discovered the actor’s films in his school days. Despite initially believing Arjun to be a Malayalam actor due to the dubbed releases, Fasil’s admiration only grew stronger after discovering the star’s Telugu origins. “His movies are an emotion that transcend language barriers,” he explains.
Bengaluru-based IT professional Arjun VC also cherishes his bond with the actor. Having met Arjun multiple times, he fondly recalls how the star remembered him after years. “That moment led me to get my first Allu Arjun tattoo as a tribute to my happiness,” Arjun shares.
Balancing Passion and Obsession
While the admiration for Allu Arjun often borders on devotion, fans like Sujith acknowledge the risks of obsession. In 2018, Allu Sirish, Arjun’s brother, advised him to maintain a healthy balance in his fandom. “It’s about keeping that admiration constructive,” Sujith reflects, though he hasn’t stopped adding tattoos to his collection.
Anticipation for Pushpa 2
As Pushpa 2 releases, Malayali fans are gearing up for celebrations. The movie, a sequel to the blockbuster Pushpa: The Rise, promises to deliver the larger-than-life cinematic spectacle that fans associate with Allu Arjun. For the Malayali audience, this is more than just a movie release; it’s a festival, a culmination of their unwavering admiration for the “Icon Star.”
With a loyal fanbase that bridges cultural and linguistic divides, Allu Arjun’s influence in Kerala is a testament to the universal language of cinema. As fans say, “Allu ettan is not just a star; he’s family.”
