Rashmika Mandanna has successfully transitioned from a regional actress to a pan-India star, earning widespread recognition for her talent and charm. In a recent interview, the Pushpa 2 actress opened up about her journey and how she has grown beyond the “National Crush” title that once defined her.
In her conversation with ETimes, Rashmika recalled the origins of the “National Crush” label, which began after her standout performance in the Kannada film Kirik Party (2016). What initially started with her being the “crush” of her college quickly snowballed into her becoming the “Karnataka Crush” and ultimately, the “National Crush” of India. Reflecting on the early days of her career, she said, “The ‘National Crush’ title actually began with my film Kirik Party. Back then, I was the crush of the whole college, which later became the ‘Karnataka Crush’ and eventually, the ‘National Crush.’”
However, Rashmika feels that she has outgrown the title as her career has evolved. She expressed her deep connection with her fans, whose love and support continue to fuel her growth. “Today, with all the love I am receiving, I feel I have moved on from that. Now, when people say, ‘You are the love of the nation’ or ‘You are in everyone’s hearts,’ it feels even more special,” she shared. “I feel like I am now rooted in their lives and hearts, and I’m just upping the game.”
In an earlier interview with Femina, Rashmika also spoke about how she remains grounded despite her fame. She explained that humility has never been a struggle for her, as she’s always surrounded by people who help keep her down to earth.
On the work front, Rashmika has been riding high on the success of Pushpa 2, where she starred alongside Allu Arjun. She has a promising slate of upcoming projects, including Kubera and The Girlfriend. Meanwhile, she is currently busy promoting her Bollywood film Chhaava, and has the much-anticipated Thama, co-starring Ayushmann Khurrana, on the horizon.