An Indian actor was taken into custody following a tragic incident during a film screening that resulted in a woman’s death due to a stampede. The event occurred in Hyderabad earlier this month when large crowds gathered to see Allu Arjun at the premiere of his film Pushpa 2: The Rule.
The 42-year-old actor faces allegations on three counts, including causing harm by dangerous means, as confirmed by a police officer who spoke anonymously. Additionally, seven other individuals have also been arrested in connection with the event.
Footage shared by broadcaster TV9 displayed Arjun at home, holding a coffee mug while talking to police officers who were there to execute his arrest. The victim, a woman in her thirties who had attended the screening with her son, sadly died during the crush, and the son sustained serious injuries. Her family subsequently filed a complaint against Arjun, his security personnel, and the cinema management, according to reports.
In a show of empathy, Arjun expressed his sorrow two days after the tragic event, stating he is “deeply heartbroken.” He assured the grieving family of his commitment to support them through this difficult time while respecting their need for privacy.
Known for his immense popularity in southern India, Allu Arjun has achieved significant success with the Pushpa film franchise, which has garnered widespread acclaim. He previously won the Best Actor accolade at India’s National Film Awards for his performance in the first installment of this series, released in 2021.
This incident highlights the immense pressure and unforgettable moments public figures face when engaging with their fans. It serves as a reminder of the critical importance of crowd management and safety measures at public events. Despite this unfortunate situation, it might also encourage a greater focus on fan safety in the future, aiming to prevent such tragedies from recurring.