Actor Allu Arjun, who achieved global recognition through the blockbuster Pushpa franchise, attended the WAVES 2025 summit at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai on Thursday.
During the event, he reflected on the success of Pushpa 2, his fitness journey, and the evolving landscape of Indian cinema.
Expressing gratitude to the Government of India for organizing the summit, Arjun said, "I was a regional actor working in Telugu films with some popularity in the South, but now, because of Pushpa and the love from Indian audiences, I’ve become a more familiar face — at least everyone knows me now.”
Pushpa 2: The Rule, directed by Sukumar and co-starring Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil, created history at the box office upon its release in December last year.
Arjun, who plays the iconic Pushpa Raj, also won the National Award for Best Actor for his performance in Pushpa: The Rise.
At the session, Arjun spoke in depth about fitness, describing it as essential to an Indian actor’s career.
“You never know if the day starts with a song or a fight scene. You have to be physically prepared for everything,” he said. Recalling his early years, he added, “About 20 years ago, there were many taboos around fitness in the South. One actress even told me, ‘I don’t think South actors can get six-packs.’ I took that as a challenge and did it for my people.”
He revealed that he began his fitness journey at the age of 19 and has gained experience — and injuries — over time.
“It’s tough, but worth it when millions appreciate you on the big screen,” he said.
The actor also shared his thoughts on maintaining versatility: “Every film should offer something new. We may fall into patterns, but I consciously try to break them. In such a competitive world, you need to present your best. I believe versatility is a by-product of that commitment.”
Opening up about a personal setback, Arjun recalled an accident after completing his tenth film. “I tore my rotator cuff. I was known for my fitness and agility, so this hit me hard. Doctors in Australia told me I needed six months off. It was a wake-up call. That’s when I realized performance matters more than just physical strength, and I began focusing on improving my acting.”
