Police complaint filed against Allu Arjun ahead of Pushpa 2 release, here’s why

Tollywood superstar Allu Arjun has sparked controversy over his longstanding practice of referring to his fans as his "army." While promoting his highly anticipated film Pushpa 2: The Rule at an event in Mumbai, Arjun reiterated his admiration for his fans, saying, “I don’t have fans; I have an army. I love my fans; they’re like my family. They stand by me, celebrate me, and support me like an army. I will make you proud.”

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However, this statement did not sit well with Srinivas Goud, president of the Green Peace Environment and Water Harvesting Foundation. Goud lodged a formal complaint at the Jawahar Nagar Police Station in Hyderabad, urging the actor to refrain from using the term "army" to describe his fan base.

“We filed a complaint against Allu Arjun requesting that he avoid using the word 'army' for his fans,” Goud said in a video shared online. “The term is a symbol of honour reserved for those who protect our nation. There are countless other words he could use instead.”

Arjun’s comments came during promotions for Pushpa 2: The Rule, directed by Sukumar. The sequel, set to release on December 5, sees Arjun reprising his role as Pushpa Raj, charting his rise from labourer to red sandalwood smuggler. The first installment earned Arjun a National Award and widespread acclaim. The film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil.