When Pushpa: The Rise released, not many thought it would become a rage across India, especially in the North. But it did. It ran housefull in North Indian states, its songs played everywhere, and even kids copied Allu Arjun’s now-iconic “thaggede le” gesture. Why? Let’s understand.
1. Mass Appeal & Simplicity
North Indian audiences have always loved movies that are simple and larger-than-life. Pushpa didn’t try to be too clever or complicated. It was a raw, rustic story of an underdog rising in the world of red sandalwood smuggling.
The dialogues, action scenes, and emotions were straight from the heart — no overthinking, just pure entertainment. This is the same reason why movies like KGF and RRR also worked in the North.
2. Allu Arjun’s Charisma
Let’s be honest here. Allu Arjun stole the show. His body language, swag, dance, and screen presence hooked the audience. Even North Indians who had not seen his previous films became fans overnight.
His performance felt very real, earthy, and relatable. That kind of natural mass hero image is rare in Bollywood today, which is why people loved him. Even the cricketers mimicked Allu Arjun’s dance step. This goes to show the movie reach.
3. The Music Was a Nationwide Hit
The Pushpa album, especially Oo Antava and Srivalli, became anthems. From Instagram reels to weddings, you couldn’t escape the songs.
Music has no language barrier, and Pushpa’s songs reached deep into the North. Once the songs became popular, more people got curious about the movie.
4. Relatability of the Underdog Story
Indians, whether North or South, love rooting for an underdog. Pushpa is about a poor labourer who fights against the odds to rise to the top.
The struggles, betrayals, and ambition shown in the film connected emotionally with people across India. North Indian audiences related to Pushpa’s “never say die” attitude.
5. Pan-Indian Exposure to South Films
Today, OTT platforms and dubbed versions have exposed the North Indian audience to South films much more than before.
People no longer see them as “regional” movies, they are big entertainers. Baahubali opened the gates, and Pushpa walked right through them.