Rashmika Mandanna On Struggle, Vijay Deverakonda & Her Breakout Year | Cover Star | THR India

In this intimate Cover Star conversation with Anupama Chopra, Rashmika Mandanna reflects on a landmark 2025 that saw her deliver five diverse releases—from the blockbuster Chhaava opposite Vicky Kaushal to the deeply personal The Girlfriend directed by Rahul Ravindran. Rashmika opens up about her journey from Coorg to becoming one of Indian cinema's most versatile stars, her struggles with being a people pleaser, and how playing Bhooma Devi finally gave her peace as an actor after nine years of feeling she had something to prove.

The actress discusses her instinctive approach to performance, her relationship with Vijay Deverakonda, her upcoming pan-Indian action film Mysaa, and why kindness remains non-negotiable in a brutal industry. From her collaboration with Sukumar on Pushpa to working with Allu Arjun and Ranbir Kapoor, Rashmika reveals the emotional depths behind her stardom—and why The Girlfriend's overwhelming response left her wanting to hold the world in a warm embrace.