Mohanlal once hoped 'Pushpa 2' would gatecrash like Kalapani—Here’s what he meant

In an industry where stars often root for their own, Mohanlal proved once again why he’s revered not just as a legend, but as a true patron of cinema. During a past media interaction, the Lucifer actor was all praises for the massive success of Allu Arjun’s Pushpa and expressed his genuine hopes for Pushpa 2 to create an even bigger cinematic storm.
When asked about the then-anticipated blockbuster Pushpa 2, Mohanlal's response was nothing short of heartfelt. “Not just Pushpa 2, a lot of big films are coming. Even my film, I wish it should run,” he said with complete honesty and humility. For him, the success of any film, big or small, isn’t just about numbers—it's about survival. “The whole industry deserves to achieve such massive acceptance,” he emphasized, underlining how every film’s triumph contributes to the overall health of the industry.
Mohanlal, known for his pan-Indian appeal and powerful storytelling, stressed that consistent releases and positive reception are the lifelines of cinema. He urged audiences to show respect towards films, irrespective of the language or the banner. “I pray for the success of all films,” he added, highlighting his deep-rooted passion for the craft beyond personal gain.

What stood out most was his comparison of Pushpa's groundbreaking success to his own classic film Kalapani—a cinematic gem shot by ace cinematographer Santosh Sivan that won a National Award and broke barriers long before pan-Indian films were even a trend. “It’s like a gatecrash. Somebody comes in. I did a film long back—Kalapani. It was a pan-Indian film. Santosh shot that film. He got a National Award. So, somebody should do it,” he said, drawing parallels between the creative breakthroughs then and now.
His words weren’t just praise—they were a call to action. A reminder to filmmakers and technicians to utilise all available resources, push boundaries, and craft unforgettable cinematic experiences that stand the test of time.