Pushpa 2: Devi Sri Prasad reacts to backlash for Allu Arjun and Sreeleela's Kissik Hindi version; 'We wanted to...'

Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna's Pushpa 2: The Rule emerged as a blockbuster hit in 2024. The film, released on December 5 last year, shattered several box office records. Although Pushpa 2's music was appreciated, the song Kissik opened to a mixed reception from the audience. Many people compared Sreeleela's dance number to Samantha Ruth Prabhu's song Oo Antava from Pushpa: The Rise. In a recent interview, Devi Sri Prasad spoke about the comparisons and reacted to Kissik's Hindi version receiving backlash.

DSP on criticism for Kissik Hindi version

For the uninitiated, some people felt Samantha's Oo Antava was better compared to Sreeleela's Kissik. Speaking with Hindustan Times, DSP admitted that he was prepared for the comparisons between both songs. 

Also read: Allu Arjun trolled for speech at Pushpa 2 song launch: Netizens say, ‘First he copied movie, now speech also’

"We make hundreds of romantic songs and each one’s different. But in case of item songs, the new one is always compared to the previous one, especially when it is a franchise film. However, this time, I felt Kissik would pick up later, whereas Oo Antava did it quickly," he said. Devi Sri Prasad mentioned Oo Antava addressed the male gaze whereas Kissik underlined the misuse of a girl's photo.

On being asked about backlash for the song's Hindi version, DSP added, "Sometimes, we go with similar-sounding words to make the song interesting. Maybe that’s what happened with Kissik. We just wanted to retain the original song’s lyrics’ feel."

The song was picturized on Allu Arjun and Sreeleela. The actress had a special appearance in the film only for a song. On the other hand, Rashmika reprised her character of Srivalli in the film. Directed by Sukumar, Pushpa 2 turned out to be a monstrous hit at the box office. The film's third installment, Pushpa 3: The Rampage, will be made soon.

When and where to watch Pushpa 2 on OTT?

Meanwhile, the buzz is that Pushpa 2: Rhe Rule will drop in all major Indian languages on Netflix. According to media reports, the film will have its digital premiere on January 30, 2025.

Also read: Pushpa 2 music director Devi Sri Prasad takes a dig at producer; Allu Arjun calls him ‘Rockstar’