Telangana govt bans benefit shows after 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' movie premiere stampede

NEW DELHI: Following a fatal incident at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad on Wednesday night during Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 premiere, the Telangana administration has prohibited early special film screenings, also called benefit shows.

The event turned tragic when Revathi, aged 39, died in a stampede whilst Allu Arjun was present at the special screening, which drew an uncontrollable crowd. Her son Sritej, aged nine, is presently undergoing medical care at a hospital.

Telangana state minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy declared that special morning screenings across the state would cease from Friday onwards. The minister criticised also Allu Arjun's appearance.

Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy said, “We’re putting an end to benefit shows to ensure public safety. From now on, film personalities visiting cinemas will be required to make their own security arrangements and obtain necessary clearance.”

A case has been filed against Allu Arjun, his security team, and the Sandhya 70mm theatre management in connection with the incident.

Tamil Nadu banned early morning shows after a fan’s death, in Jan 2023

Following a tragic incident where an Ajith fan died after falling from a moving lorry while celebrating Thunivu's release at a 1am screening on January 11, 2023, the Tamil Nadu administration took decisive action.

The Tamil Nadu government issued a government order prohibiting pre-morning screenings.

The new regulation stipulates that cinema halls across Tamil Nadu must commence their first show no earlier than 9am, with the primary focus being public safety and security concerns.

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