Pushpa Devi vs S Thaman: The Behind-the-Scenes Score Shake-Up That Almost Changed Pushpa 2 Forever

When Pushpa 2: The Rule was hurtling toward its December 5, 2024 release, a bombshell backstage report dropped — and it had nothing to do with Allu Arjun’s swag or Rashmika’s Srivalli. It was about the music. Specifically, whether Pushpa Devi (as fans lovingly call Devi Sri Prasad, or DSP) would even be on the film at all.

Here is everything that happened — and why it matters.

The Report: Was Pushpa Devi Really Getting Replaced?

As reported by Gulte, the background score crafted by Devi Sri Prasad was reportedly no longer going to be used in the film. The makers had apparently considered S Thaman as an alternate composer to craft a replacement background score. Reports suggested there was some delay caused by DSP in delivering the score, and the makers were not willing to take any risk this close to release. However, even if S Thaman’s score made it to the final cut, due credits were stated to be given to both composers.

Why Pushpa Devi Matters So Much to This Franchise

Devi Sri Prasad has been long associated with the Pushpa franchise and handled the musical score for the Allu Arjun starrer in its first installment as well. Each and every track from Pushpa 1 was a chartbusting hit loved by all.

Songs like Oo Antava, Srivalli, and Saami Saami didn’t just dominate Telugu cinema — they crossed every language barrier imaginable. That’s the weight Pushpa Devi carries into every Pushpa project.

Learn more about Devi Sri Prasad on Wikipedia.

Other Big Pre-Release Changes to Pushpa 2

The background score report wasn’t the only buzz swirling. Contrary to initial reports of Shraddha Kapoor shaking a leg with Allu Arjun in a special number, it was instead Sreeleela who was locked for the high-octane dance number. The shoot was scheduled for November 6 or 7, 2024.

Besides Allu Arjun, Pushpa 2 also marked the return of Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil in their respective roles as Srivalli and SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat.

The film eventually released, Pushpa Devi’s music was intact, and the rest is box office history — Pushpa 2 became one of the biggest Indian films ever made. For all things Telugu cinema, visit Technosports.

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