The sequel blockbuster Pushpa 2: The Rule was a splash not just at the box office but also on the behind-the-scenes track. While fans rejoiced at the cinematic extravaganza, action-packed sequences, and edge-of-the-seat performances, a more subdued tale was being spun behind the music console. For the first time since the film’s release, esteemed composer S Thaman spoke about his contribution to the music of the film—and shed light on why his background score didn’t find its way into the final cut.
During an interview recently, Thaman ensured that while he worked hard on Pushpa 2, delivering three versions of the background score within ten days, his work was eventually rejected for use in the final movie release. Rather, the unit chose to make a combination of scores by DSP and Sam CS.
Thaman’s Candid Revelation
This is the first official word from Thaman about his contribution to Pushpa 2: The Rule, which opened in global theaters on December 5, 2024. In an interview with candor and humility, Thaman revealed that he was approached by director Sukumar to try out the background score of the film. In addition to Thaman, B. Ajaneesh Loknath and Sam CS were also approached for their musical inputs.
I worked for roughly ten days and developed three distinct variations of the BGM for Pushpa 2,” Thaman disclosed. “The production crew liked my attempt. Yet they felt a mix of DSP and Sam CS suited the overall tone of the movie better. And I am fine with that.
Notwithstanding his background score not being chosen for the theatrical final release, Thaman revealed no frustration or disappointment. He instead recognized the collaborative process of filmmaking, where artistic choices are undertaken in the interests of the story and experience.
A Unique Musical Experiment for a Pan-Indian Franchise
Director Sukumar’s reputation for unconventional, experimentative filmmaking is well known, and for Pushpa 2, he followed the same ethos for the music. Instead of banking on a single music director, he collaborated with several top composers to craft distinct musical personas for the movie. This adventurous venture gave the team the freedom to experiment with different soundscapes, moods, and intensities before finalizing a mix that best fit the vision of the movie.
Although DSP, who had written music for the original Pushpa: The Rise, was retained to work on the crucial songs and portions of the background, Sam CS, the artist behind Vikram Vedha and Kaithi, was roped in to provide a darker, more gripping tone to the action portions.
Thaman, who is a prime composer in the Telugu sector, realized the process behind the creation and accepted the result with maturity. “I felt privileged to have been approached for a film of this magnitude. Even if my music was not used or not, it was a satisfying experience,” he stated.
Pushpa 2 Dominates the Box Office
At the same time, Pushpa 2: The Rule was the top-grossing Indian movie of 2024, grossing an immense ₹1,770 crore worldwide. Starring Allu Arjun once more as Pushpa Raj and Rashmika Mandanna as Srivalli, the movie combined action, drama, and uprising in a high-energy sequel that enthralled fans globally.
The technical excellence of the film, particularly the cinematography, stunt choreography, and sound effects, was lauded by the critics. The background score, especially during intense chase and fight sequences, also helped to raise the tension levels. The joint background score of DSP and Sam CS in its final version won general acclaim.
Interestingly, Pushpa 2 is now available to stream on Netflix, with a “reloaded” cut including longer scenes and re-cut sequences, but Thaman’s score is still not included. This confirms that his musical input was confined to the development stage, and not any public cut of the film.
Thaman’s Integrity Stands Tall
Thaman’s open acceptance brings an added level of transparency to the journey of the film’s production. His openness to discuss the issue publicly reflects his confidence and professionalism. Most fans and fellow artists praised him for addressing the issue with dignity, proving once again why he’s respected as an artist and an individual.
Actually, social media was full of appreciation for Thaman, with people wanting to one day hear the ones he had composed for Pushpa 2. Some even went so far as to recommend that the team release those scores as bonus material or alternate versions of the soundtrack.
Meanwhile, Thaman remains as busy as ever with several upcoming big-budget projects in both Telugu and Tamil cinema. With back-to-back hits like Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, Varisu, and Sarkaru Vaari Paata under his belt, his creative energy continues to shine, even if one project doesn’t feature his final work.
Read Also :- Hit 3 Trailer Breaks Records: Nani’s Intense Cop Drama Storms YouTube
Conclusion
In the industry of film, where there is tremendous competition and egos tend to collide, Thaman’s elegant response to his music being left out of Pushpa 2 is a welcome exhibition of musical maturity. He didn’t let the rejection bother him but instead celebrated the process and cheered for the end product that the audience adored.
While Pushpa 2: The Rule keeps streaming on top and trending among fans, it also reminds us of the countless uncredited fingers and unsung notes behind the making of a cinematic gem. And whereas Thaman’s music may not have struck this time, his humility and class certainly did.
For now, fans can look forward to Thaman’s magic in his upcoming releases, while cherishing Pushpa 2 as a milestone in Indian cinema—a film made not by one mind, but by the collective brilliance of many.
Follow us on Instagram
