- By Srishti Pandey
- Thu, 13 Feb 2025 11:52 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Rashmika Mandanna, often dubbed India's 'national crush,' believes that such titles, while flattering, don't necessarily translate into box office success. In a conversation with PTI, as she gears up for the release of her upcoming historical drama Chhaava, Rashmika opened up about her career, the challenges of juggling Hindi and Telugu films and the thrill of playing a historical character.
At 28, Rashmika Mandanna has carved a niche for herself in Indian cinema with hits like Geetha Govindam, Dear Comrade, Bheeshma, Sita Ramam, Varisu, and the Pushpa franchise. Despite her widespread popularity, she remains grounded when it comes to the industry's realities.
"Tags like 'national crush' come from a place of love," Rashmika says. "But they don't define an actor's career. It's the films you do and the connection you build with audiences that really matter. When people buy tickets and show up in theatres, that's what counts."
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Rashmika's journey began with the 2016 Kannada film Kirik Party, which she assumed would be her first and last project. "I thought it would be a one-film journey," she recalls. "But here I am, 24 films later, feeling incredibly blessed."
With blockbuster successes in both Bollywood and South Indian cinema, Rashmika acknowledges the growing challenge of managing her schedule.
"There are times when events in the North and South clash, and it's tough. But I've received so much love from audiences across the country, and I feel responsible to show up. Sleep becomes secondary," she laughs. "I love interacting with people, and that connection with my well-wishers keeps me going."
Her recent Bollywood outing, Animal alongside Ranbir Kapoor, was a box office juggernaut, grossing over ₹1000 crore. Meanwhile, her reprisal of Srivalli in Pushpa 2: The Rule has kept her rooted in the South film industry.
"That feeling when a film is loved by audiences is addictive," she admits. "I crave that high and am willing to work double shifts if that's what it takes."
In Chhaava, Rashmika steps into the shoes of Maharani Yesubai, the wife of Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, portrayed by Vicky Kaushal. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film tells the story of Sambhaji Maharaj's tenacious fight to protect the Maratha Empire.
"The offer to play Yesubai came as a surprise," Rashmika shares. "It's a massive role, and I knew I couldn't afford to get it wrong. We spent months perfecting the language and understanding the historical context."
The character of Yesubai intrigued Rashmika because of her leadership during Sambhaji Maharaj's prolonged absence. "While he was away at war for almost a decade, Yesubai managed the kingdom with remarkable intelligence and strength. These are unsung heroes, and I feel privileged to bring her story to life."
On set, Rashmika found herself at ease in traditional attire. "I've always preferred traditional looks over modern ones. There's a certain grace to it," she says. "When we filmed our first scene, it felt like stepping into the past. The chemistry between Yesubai and Sambhaji Maharaj felt authentic and magical."
Chhaava also features Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty and Ashutosh Rana in pivotal roles. The film is set to hit theatres this Friday, and Rashmika hopes the audience will appreciate the historical narrative and her portrayal of Yesubai.
"It's more than just a story about battles," Rashmika concludes. "It's about the courage, intellect, and resilience of those who held the fort back home. I can't wait for the audience to see this chapter of history unfold on the big screen."
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