‘I became an actor because I couldn’t say no’: Rashmika Mandanna
Rashmika Mandanna, one of Indian cinema's most celebrated actresses, recently opened up about her unconventional journey into acting. In an interview with Galatta Plus, the ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ star shared how a series of unplanned events and her inability to say ‘no’ led her to a flourishing career in the film industry.
Recounting her entry into films, Rashmika revealed that she never intended to become an actor. “I became an actor because I couldn’t say no. That’s how it all started,” she said. It began with a request from her Head of Department in college, asking her to participate in a competition. Rashmika, unable to refuse, took part in the competition. Even then, she doubted her abilities. “When my HOD asked me to go take part in a competition, I couldn’t say no to her. So I went and took part in the competition. And when I was offered a film, I was like, I'm getting a chance to act in film, but I don't know if I can even act, and I couldn't say no to them either, and that’s how I became an actor,” she explained.
Her first film opportunity came under unusual circumstances. Rashmika shared how her class teacher played a crucial role in connecting her to the filmmakers. “Apparently, my number wasn’t reachable, so they contacted my class teacher. She told me these people were trying to reach me, but I thought it was a prank call. She encouraged me to give it a try, saying it’s a big opportunity. I couldn’t say no to her, and that was the first push,” she added.
Despite her meteoric rise, Rashmika’s career has not been without challenges. In the blockbuster film ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule,’ which recently crossed the Rs 1500 crore mark globally, Rashmika faced hurdles while filming the controversial song "Peelings." She admitted being initially uncomfortable with the choreography, which involved several lifting moves. “I have a phobia of being lifted, and here is the song where I am only being lifted,” she confessed.
However, her trust in director Sukumar and co-star Allu Arjun helped her overcome these fears. “Once you trust the man, it becomes fun,” Rashmika said. She also reflected on her bold approach to acting, emphasizing that self-doubt has no place in her profession. “If I did doubt myself, it would be impossible to be an actor. I know I am here to entertain and please my director. This is my bread and butter. If I start overthinking, I’ll typecast myself, and I don’t want that,” she stated.
Playing Srivalli in Sukumar’s directorial, Rashmika has become a household name, earning accolades for her performances and carving a niche in the industry. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “There are some films you want to be a part of, and others you’re unsure about, but not knowing how to say no has made me who I am today. And I’m very, very proud of it.”