Rashmika Mandanna on Pushpa 2
Actor Rashmika Mandanna feels that it’s high time that people stop referring to films as ‘Hindi’ or ‘south’- it’s just Indian film industry for her.
She has wrapped up her 22nd film, even as she shoots for another one. Rashmika Mandanna is in the busiest phase of her career clearly, riding high on the success of her last release, Animal, in December 2023.
“I have just wrapped up my 22nd film, and it has taken me 22 films to actually be here today. So it’s been quite hard work and quite a journey, but today I’ve given people comfort to write stories for me, trust me with big films and good stories. I think it’s the journey that I’ve had, and I feel absolutely blessed. I feel extremely confident and some sort of relief,” says the 27-year-old.
Pushpa 2, her immediate next slated for an Independence Day release, is also chugging along in terms of the shoot, when we ask the actor. “It’s been going great. We are almost 50 plus days into the film, and there’s a lot more to do, but as I always keep promising my audience that it’s going to be bigger than ever before. There’s a lot of hard work put in and a lot of focus on the detailing taken care of. There’s a lot of focus on each character that’s being taken care of, and that’s amazing!,” she gushes.
As we are talking about her career and films, what stands out is that Rashmika Mandanna has managed to carve out a career in both Hindi and south films. What the actor wants to emphasise on is the pan Indian factor, doing away with even segregating the fact that she did films in two different industries.
“I think it’s about time that we start calling out the industry as the Indian film industry because we are all in the entertainment industry, and we are all one country. And it’s high time that we start acknowledging that all the industries in our country are the same. We are all here to do some mad, cool films and tell some really cool stories. I love the fact that the barriers are going down, and people are working together in different industries and different languages despite where they belong. I’m really happy that I’m part of the change as well,” she ends.
Rashmika’s Filmography Milestone:
With the completion of her 22nd film, Rashmika Mandanna stands at a significant juncture in her career. From her debut in the Kannada film industry with Kirik Party to her ventures in Telugu and Tamil cinema, Rashmika has showcased her acting prowess and versatility. Her impressive filmography includes hits like Geetha Govindam, Sarileru Neekevvaru, and Dear Comrade, establishing her as one of the most sought-after actresses in the South Indian film industry.
Pushpa 2 Experience:
One of the highlights of Rashmika’s recent endeavors is her involvement in Pushpa 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the blockbuster Pushpa: The Rise. Rashmika shares her enthusiasm about being a part of such a grand project and working alongside acclaimed actor Allu Arjun and director Sukumar. She expresses her excitement about the intricate storytelling and the challenges her character brings, emphasizing the collaborative and enriching nature of the filmmaking process.
Challenges and Growth:
Addressing the challenges she has faced in the industry, Rashmika emphasizes the importance of constantly evolving as an artist. She discusses the learning curve associated with working in diverse language industries, adapting to new cultures, and embracing the unique nuances of each film. Rashmika acknowledges that every project has contributed to her growth, both personally and professionally, and she values the continuous learning experience each film brings.
North vs. South Indian Cinema:
In the conversation, Rashmika candidly addresses the ongoing discussion around the distinction between North and South Indian cinema. She advocates for appreciating cinema as a collective art form that transcends regional boundaries. Rashmika believes that the audience’s love for good storytelling, irrespective of the language, is a unifying factor. She envisions a future where actors and filmmakers seamlessly collaborate across industries, fostering a pan-Indian cinematic experience.
Balancing Bollywood Aspirations:
As her popularity extends beyond South Indian cinema, Rashmika has become a notable name in Bollywood circles. When asked about her future plans in Bollywood, she affirms her eagerness to explore opportunities but emphasizes the importance of striking a balance. Rashmika expresses her commitment to maintaining a strong presence in South Indian cinema while venturing into Bollywood with projects that resonate with her and the audience.
Conclusion:
Rashmika Mandanna’s journey in the film industry has been marked by versatility, dedication, and a passion for storytelling. Completing her 22nd film is not just a numerical milestone but a testament to her commitment to the craft. As she gears up for the release of Pushpa 2 and embraces new challenges, Rashmika continues to captivate audiences with her charisma and talent.
