Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran, widely appreciated by Telugu audiences for his performance in Salaar and currently working on SSMB29, is known for being highly selective with projects in other languages. He typically chooses roles with substantial significance, avoiding films that do not offer a strong narrative presence.

His upcoming film Vilaayath Budha is now gearing up for release, with the teaser launched in Telugu and other pan-India languages. From the first frame to the last, the film’s visuals and tone have drawn comparisons to Pushpa. One notable moment in the teaser even features a police officer taunting Prithviraj’s character, asking, “Do you think you are Pushpa?” To which he confidently responds, “He is International, I am local.” Such interactions have piqued curiosity about the actor’s choice of this project.

The story of Vilaayath Budha is adapted from the 2020 Malayalam novel by GR Indugopan. The narrative revolves around a school teacher who secretly cultivates a rare sandalwood tree in his courtyard. A former student-turned-smuggler sets his sights on the tree to profit from it, leading to a conflict that expands across the village and ultimately connects with the mafia. While the 2021 film Pushpa: The Rise also deals with red sandalwood smuggling, the stories are fundamentally different. The similarities are largely superficial, limited to the rugged look of the hero and the forest backdrop.

Directed by Jayan Nambiar and featuring music by Jakes Bejoy, Vilaayath Budha promises an intense cinematic experience, with Prithviraj’s commanding presence anchoring the narrative. The makers have secured the rights to the original novel, ensuring a faithful adaptation. Although the official release date is yet to be announced, the film is likely to hit theaters during the Diwali season, and it is expected to attract attention across multiple languages, setting itself apart despite the teaser comparisons to Pushpa.