Is Prithviraj's 'Vilaayath Budha' a 'Pushpa' Copycat? That's the question on everyone's mind, and Prithviraj Sukumaran is setting the record straight! At the trailer launch of his upcoming film Vilaayath Budha in Kochi, Prithviraj addressed the elephant in the room: the similarities between his character, Double Mohanan, and Allu Arjun's iconic Pushpa from the hit films.
The teaser for Vilaayath Budha, released two months prior, even cheekily acknowledged the connection, as both characters are involved in sandalwood smuggling. But is there more than meets the eye?
Prithviraj clarified that Vilaayath Budha is not inspired by Pushpa. The film is actually based on GR Indugopan's novel of the same name and was scripted by the author and Rajesh Pinnadan. Initially, the film was to be directed by Sachy, known for Ayyappanum Koshiyum. However, following Sachy's passing in 2020, Jayan Nambiar, his associate, took over the directorial duties.
"When Sachy first conceived this idea and brought it to me, Pushpa hadn’t even come out," Prithviraj explained. "We didn’t know that another movie about a sandalwood smuggler was in the works, or that after release, it would become a worldwide phenomenon." He admitted that the Pushpa films' success led them to acknowledge the comparison in the teaser.
He also understands why those unfamiliar with the novel might draw parallels. But here's where it gets controversial: Prithviraj firmly stated that his character, Double Mohanan, bears no resemblance to Pushpa. The Pushpa dialogue referenced in the teaser might not even make the final cut of the film!
Vilaayath Budha began filming in 2022 and is slated for theatrical release on November 21st. The filming was split into multiple schedules, as Prithviraj was also directing L2 Empuraan, starring Mohanlal, which was released in March. Prithviraj's recent work includes Sarzameen, and he's set to appear in Varanasi and Daayra soon.
What do you think? Do you believe Vilaayath Budha can stand on its own, or will the shadow of Pushpa loom large? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
