‘It’s something I have brought upon myself so...’ Vijay Deverakonda about love, fame, and Kingdom

Vijay Deverakonda, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Kingdom, has opened up about the challenges of maintaining privacy while living under constant public scrutiny — especially in light of ongoing rumours linking him to actress Rashmika Mandanna.

In a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, the actor confirmed that he is in a relationship, saying, “Of course, I’m 35. I’m not single.” However, he offered no further details, reinforcing his long-standing stance of keeping his personal life out of the spotlight.

Reflecting on the inherent contradictions of celebrity life, Vijay shared: “I’ve always felt like it’s a strange split. You want to be an actor and be known by the world, but you also want to remain anonymous. It’s some kind of psychotic dichotomy.”

He admitted that the complexities of this lifestyle are a consequence of his own choices: “This is the life and career I’ve brought upon myself.”

If it were up to him, Vijay says he would separate his true self from his public image entirely. “If I could wear a mask that didn’t resemble me, and that person could be the star while I still got to act, I’d be content. Because for me, Vijay Deverakonda the actor — I operate for him.”

He also acknowledged the benefits that fame brings — comfort, success, respect — but admitted uncertainty about what actually draws people to him. “I enjoy the fruits of it, but I don’t know whether it’s my work or something about me personally that people respond to. I don’t know how successful I am [at staying private], but I try.”

Despite relentless speculation about Rashmika Mandanna, Vijay remained silent on the details, instead expressing gratitude for the personal journey that shaped him. “I wouldn’t trade my childhood or upbringing — no matter how good, bad, hard or happy it was. Everything I faced was essential to becoming who I am.”

Vijay also revealed how difficult it is to present himself authentically in a media-saturated world. “Sometimes I think — don’t even put my interviews in text, just post the video. But even that’s not better. I say what comes to me, and then my team says, ‘Anna, it’s better if you don’t talk at all.’”

He admitted that in today’s content-overloaded age, it's increasingly tough to shape how one is perceived by a wider audience. Labels such as “people’s star” or “universal star” get attached — sometimes without his consent — and can quickly become points of backlash, as seen during the release of The Family Star, which drew flak simply for including “the” in its title.

Vijay also touched on the structural challenges faced by newcomers in the film industry, noting how difficult it is for talented, passionate outsiders to break through, especially compared to those who grow up surrounded by the world of cinema.

What’s next?

Kingdom, a much-anticipated spy thriller directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri of Jersey fame, is set to hit theatres worldwide on July 31. The film features music by Anirudh Ravichander and cinematography by Girish Gangadharan. Vijay himself announced the new release date with the message: “Let our destinies unfold.”

As fans await the release, Vijay’s introspective comments offer a rare glimpse into the inner life of a star who continues to balance fame, public curiosity, and personal boundaries — all while choosing to speak only when it truly matters.