Discover Rashmika Mandanna’s film journey, broken engagement with Rakshit Shetty, and rumored romance with Vijay Deverakonda.
Introduction
Rashmika Mandanna is one of the most loved actresses in Indian cinema today. Known for her expressive acting, charming personality, and wide smile, she has made her mark across Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi films. However, beyond the glitz and glamor, her personal journey has not been without challenges. In fact, it includes a broken engagement and, over the years, growing speculation about a rumored relationship with actor Vijay Deverakonda.
Let’s take a deeper look at her career, personal milestones, and the buzz surrounding her life.
Early Life and Entry into Films
Born on April 5, 1996, in Virajpet, Karnataka, Rashmika comes from a middle-class Kodava family. She completed her schooling in Coorg and pursued a degree in Psychology, Journalism, and English Literature at M.S. Ramaiah College in Bangalore.
Her journey into the limelight began when she won the Clean & Clear Fresh Face contest in 2014. This led to modeling assignments and eventually opened the doors to the Kannada film industry.
A Strong Debut: Kirik Party
Rashmika made her acting debut in 2016 with the Kannada hit Kirik Party, directed by Rishab Shetty. Starring alongside Rakshit Shetty, she won the hearts of audiences with her innocent performance. The film was a massive commercial success and established her as a promising newcomer.
This film didn’t just change her career—it also changed her life personally, as she met her then-fiancé Rakshit Shetty on the sets.
The Engagement That Didn’t Last
In 2017, Rashmika got engaged to Rakshit Shetty in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family. The engagement created a buzz in the South Indian film industry, with fans showering the couple with blessings.
However, in 2018, the couple mutually decided to call off the engagement. Reports suggested compatibility issues and professional differences as the reasons behind the split. Rashmika later said that it was a tough decision but necessary for their personal growth.
She handled the public scrutiny with grace and moved forward with her career.
Her engagement to actor Rakshit Shetty ended in 2018.
Source : HindustanTimes
Rashmika Mandanna’s Early Life and Entry into Films
After the success of Kirik Party, she subsequently set her sights on Telugu cinema. Soon after, her big break arrived with the romantic comedy Chalo (2018). Following that, she quickly rose to prominence by starring in Geetha Govindam opposite Vijay Deverakonda. Notably, the film went on to become one of the highest-grossing Telugu movies of the year. As a result, her popularity soared, establishing her as a major star in the Telugu film industry.
Her onscreen chemistry with Vijay was widely appreciated, and the duo became one of the most loved pairs in Telugu cinema. This marked the beginning of both professional collaboration—and personal rumors.
Rashmika Mandana and Vijay Deverakonda: What’s the Story?
Rashmika and Vijay have worked together in multiple films like Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade. Their undeniable chemistry sparked rumors that the two were dating in real life.
While neither of them has confirmed the relationship publicly, they’ve been spotted together at various events, on holidays, and even attending family functions. Rashmika has often called Vijay her “closest friend” in the industry, while fans continue to speculate.
In recent interviews, Rashmika mentioned being in a relationship but refrained from naming the person, fueling more speculation about Vijay.
Rashmika Mandana’s Bollywood Dreams and National Popularity
Rashmika made her Bollywood debut with Goodbye (2022) opposite Amitabh Bachchan. Though the film didn’t perform exceptionally well at the box office, her performance was appreciated.
She followed it up with the blockbuster Animal (2023), where she starred opposite Ranbir Kapoor. The film’s commercial success cemented her place as a pan-India actress.
Today, Rashmika is among the few South Indian actresses to have successfully transitioned into Hindi cinema while maintaining her stardom in the South.
Rashmika Mandana’s Notable Films
Here are some of Rashmika’s most popular movies across languages:
Kannada:
- Kirik Party (2016)
- Anjani Putra (2017)
- Yajamana (2019)
Telugu:
- Chalo (2018)
- Geetha Govindam (2018)
- Dear Comrade (2019)
- Sarileru Neekevvaru (2020)
- Pushpa: The Rise (2021)
Hindi:
- Goodbye (2022)
- Animal (2023)
- Chhaava (upcoming in 2025)
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Rashmika has often spoken about the pressures of being in the public eye. Following the end of her engagement, she took time to focus on her mental health and career. She’s also addressed issues like trolling, especially regarding her personal life.
Despite all this, She continues to remain positive and focused. Her candid interviews and cheerful presence on social media have only endeared her more to her fans.
Rashmika’s Image and Brand Endorsements
Apart from films, Rashmika is a favorite among advertisers. She endorses brands across skincare, apparel, and consumer products. Her popularity with youth and pan-India appeal makes her one of the top brand ambassadors in the country today.
She was also listed in Forbes India’s “30 Under 30” in 2020 and dubbed the “National Crush of India.”
What’s Next for Rashmika?
Rashmika has a packed schedule ahead. She will reprise her role in Pushpa: The Rule, the sequel to Pushpa: The Rise, alongside Allu Arjun. She’s also shooting for Hindi film Chhaava, in which she stars opposite Vicky Kaushal.
Her choice of films reflects her intent to experiment with genres while expanding her reach.
Conclusion
Her journey is inspiring. From a college student in Karnataka to a national star, her rise has been rapid yet well-earned. Her career has seen both highs and lows, and her personal life—especially her broken engagement and rumored relationship—has remained in the public eye.
But through it all, she has remained grounded, ambitious, and connected with her fans. Whether it’s on-screen or off, she continues to be a figure of charm, resilience, and talent in Indian cinema.