‘Why are we so obsessed with West…’: Janhvi Kapoor slams Nolan fans over IMAX takeover, says ‘Pushpa 2 is cinema too’

Sukumar’s Pushpa 2: The Rule is not only dominating the IMAX screens but also breaking box office records. The Allu Arjun starrer collected over ₹400 crore worldwide in its opening weekend, cementing its status as a cinematic juggernaut.

However, the film’s exclusive IMAX release sparked outrage among fans of Christopher Nolan, whose re-release of Interstellar was postponed as Pushpa 2 took over all IMAX screens in India.

Amid the backlash, actor Janhvi Kapoor defended the decision and accused critics of undermining Indian cinema.

Responding to an Instagram post criticizing the sideline of Interstellar, Janhvi wrote, “Pushpa 2 is also cinema. Why are we so obsessed with idolizing the West and belittling things that come from our own country?” She added: “The same rooted representation and larger-than-life tone that other countries celebrate and are fascinated by, is what we are ashamed of. “Sad.”

Her statement sparked mixed reactions online. Some applauded her stance, with one user commenting: “People who watch the West act like upper class people compared to those who enjoy Indian films.” Others disagreed and questioned whether Pushpa 2 is a cinema represents something India should be proud of.

The sequel follows Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun), a red sandalwood smuggler who faces family and legal challenges, including his nemesis, police officer Bhanwar Singh Shekawat (Fahadh Faasil). Rashmika Mandanna reprises her role as Srivalli. With its gorgeous visuals and mass appeal, ‘Pushpa 2’ has emerged as one of the highest-grossing films of the year and has made a significant impression even before the end of the first week.