In a raw twist that's got fans buzzing, samantha Ruth Prabhu is reportedly regretting her iconic item number 'Oo Antava' from Pushpa: The Rise—even though the 2021 track became a massive blockbuster, setting screens ablaze with her bold, confident moves alongside Allu Arjun. What started as a personal challenge to step out of her comfort zone and prove she could own a sensual persona has now left her stuck with the "item dancer" tag that's proving tough to shake.
Despite the song's wild success and praise for her gutsy performance, samantha has data-faced relentless labeling and trolling. She's revealed in past interviews how the number came right after her separation from naga Chaitanya, with loved ones urging her to "sit at home" instead of diving into such a provocative role. She pushed through, viewing it as empowerment—not glamour—but the backlash lingers. Even years later, big superstar projects keep rolling in with item song offers, yet she's reluctant to repeat it, fearing it reinforces the stereotype.
The fallout? Leading lady roles have dried up, with industry whispers suggesting the tag is hurting her chances for meaty, central characters. samantha, ever the fighter, has shifted gears—pouring her energy into her growing business ventures, from wellness brands to activewear launches like Mile Collective, and production work. She's openly prioritizing long-term health, meaningful connections, and purpose over the hustle of back-to-back films in 2026.
It's a glamorous yet gritty reminder: one bold move can redefine an image forever—sometimes for better, sometimes with lasting scars. Samantha's journey from screen siren to savvy entrepreneur shows resilience, but fans can't help wondering: Was 'Oo Antava' worth the price?