- Pushpa 2: The Rule, directed by Sukumar and starring Allu Arjun, continues to make major strides at the global box office, with reports claiming the film has already crossed ₹400 crore, including ₹265 crore from the Indian box office alone. However, despite the film’s box office success, Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of the character Shreevalli has come under heavy criticism from viewers. Many have labeled the character as poorly written, with comments questioning how someone with such a character could be called a “National Crush.”
The trolling and criticism have intensified due to comments Rashmika made before the film’s release. Following Allu Arjun’s National Award win for Pushpa, Rashmika had expressed hope that Pushpa 2 would bring her a National Award as well. This expectation has been mocked online, with people sarcastically questioning whether such a performance deserved a National Award. Rashmika had shared these expectations at the International Film Festival of India in Goa, where she was asked if she expected a National Award after Pushpa 2. She had replied that she was hoping for the same success that Allu Arjun achieved with the film.
While Pushpa 2 has been one of the most anticipated films in Indian cinema, the reviews have been mixed since its release on December 5. The first half of the movie was praised, but the second half received comparisons to melodramatic soap operas. Among the main cast members—Allu Arjun, Fahadh Faasil, and Rashmika Mandanna—it was Rashmika’s performance that faced the most backlash.
Despite the criticism, Rashmika Mandanna continues to rise in her career, transitioning from South Indian cinema to Bollywood. Despite being heavily trolled, she has earned a level of popularity and acceptance that many other South Indian stars have not yet achieved in Bollywood. Having started her career in Kannada cinema, Rashmika has built a strong fanbase with her charm and acting, gaining increasing support with each project.
