The Income Tax (IT) Department conducted raids at the residence and office of Sukumar, the director of Pushpa 2: The Rule, in Hyderabad on Wednesday, January 22. The raids reportedly began early in the morning and continued for several hours. Sukumar was escorted by IT officials from the Hyderabad airport to his residence as part of the investigation.
Officials have not disclosed the exact purpose or findings of the raid yet. However, the department is reportedly looking into financial irregularities and potential tax evasion.
Ongoing Raids on Pushpa 2 Producers
This raid follows similar operations conducted on Tuesday, January 21, at the properties of Pushpa 2 producers, Naveen Yerneni and Ravi Shankar Yalamanchili, of Mythri Movie Makers. The production house is renowned for hits like Srimanthudu, Rangasthalam, Janatha Garage, Pushpa: The Rise, and the upcoming Pushpa 2: The Rule.
The IT department is reportedly scrutinizing financial documents and verifying transactions for possible discrepancies.
Dil Raju’s Properties Also Raided
On the same day, IT officials also raided the properties of producer Dil Raju, whose real name is Velamakucha Venkata Ramana Reddy. Dil Raju, a prominent figure in Telugu cinema, owns Sri Venkateswara Creations and has produced major films like Game Changer.
The officials suspect unaccounted income and are examining his financial records for irregularities. Dil Raju has won two National Film Awards and received the Nagi Reddy–Chakrapani National Award in 2013.
Digital Marketing Firms Under Scrutiny
Reports suggest that a digital marketing company connected to these filmmakers is also under the IT department’s scanner.
Sukumar’s Career Amid the Investigation
Sukumar is celebrated for his innovative storytelling and blockbuster hits. His latest project, Pushpa 2: The Rule, starring Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna, has already grossed over ₹1500 crore, making it one of the year’s most anticipated films.
As the IT department continues its investigation, further updates are awaited.
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