a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Pushpa hits Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic gets a Telugu-themed shoutout as Allu Arjun's swag goes international
Ahead of his opening Wimbledon match against Alexandre Muller of France, tennis player Novak Djokovic became the subject of a surprising and creative tribute by the official Wimbledon Instagram page. The post featured a digital image of Djokovic styled with the iconic Pushpa title font, not in English, but in Telugu. The caption accompanying the post read, "Rukega nahi aur jhukega bhi nahi", echoing the now-famous line from the film.
The crossover post immediately caught the attention of social media users and fans, with comments pouring in. One read, 'How is the official Wimbledon page so much in love with India?', while another tennis fan noted, 'Best. Post. Ever. As a Telugu tennis player, I'm over the moon.' Another user even asked, 'Hope Wimbledon page is not hacked? Telugu?' Actor Allu Arjun, who played the lead role in Pushpa, reportedly liked the post.
Pushpa's global appeal continues to grow
The Instagram post is another indication of how far the reach of Indian — and specifically Telugu — cinema has come. Pushpa, starring Allu Arjun and directed by Sukumar, has made an impression both in India and abroad. Known for its intense plot and stylised action, the film has already caught the attention of international celebrities.
Previously, Australian cricketer David Warner recreated the popular hook step from the "Srivalli" song featured in Pushpa: The Rise. His tribute drew applause from fans across regions, reinforcing the film's popularity even outside cinema audiences.
About Pushpa and its success story
Pushpa was released in two parts — Pushpa: The Rise and Pushpa: The Rule. The films are produced by Mythri Movie Makers in association with Muttamsetty Media. Allu Arjun plays Pushpa Raj, a labourer who becomes involved in red sandalwood smuggling and faces off against SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, played by Fahadh Faasil, who made his Telugu debut with the film. Other cast members include Rashmika Mandanna, Jagadeesh Prathap Bandari, Dhananjaya, and Rao Ramesh.
Together, the two films have grossed over ₹1,642 crore (approximately USD 190 million), making it one of the highest-grossing films in Indian cinema. Allu Arjun received the National Award for Best Actor at the 69th National Film Awards for Pushpa: The Rise.
Wimbledon's Instagram post highlights Pushpa's rising global presence and shows how Indian cinema continues to make unexpected crossovers.
