Rashmika As M.S. Subbulakshmi Receives Mixed Response?

The casting of reigning actress Rashmika Mandanna as legendary singer M.S. Subbulakshmi in the upcoming biopic has triggered a mixed response on social media, with several users questioning whether she is the right choice for the challenging role.

The criticism has been particularly strong in some online discussions, with users questioning the casting even before seeing footage from the film. In one Reddit discussion, a user wrote, “I don’t think Rashmika suits this role. Many other better choices available,” while suggesting Sai Pallavi or Keerthy Suresh as alternatives.

Another Reddit user was even more dismissive, writing, “She can’t open her mouth completely and talk, how can she play a singer role.” Others questioned whether Rashmika could convincingly portray the traditional image and personality associated with M.S. Subbulakshmi.

However, not everyone is against the casting. Some users have argued that Rashmika should be given an opportunity to prove herself rather than being judged before the film’s release. One user said, “Nah, I’m willing to give her the benefit of the doubt,” while another pointed out that the makers would also have considered the actress’s popularity and commercial appeal.

Some users have also compared the situation with Keerthy Suresh’s casting as Savitri in ‘Mahanati’, which initially invited doubts but eventually received appreciation. Others suggested actresses such as Sai Pallavi and Rukmini Vasanth as alternative choices.

Rejecting the negativity on social media, producer Lagadapati Sridhar says the casting would have been made only after serious consideration.

“Rashmika Mandanna would have been chosen by the makers after serious thought, and the likes of veteran producer Allu Aravind backing the project give the biopic more confidence and strength,” he says.

He believes Rashmika has reached dizzying heights through her talent and professionalism and has also made a strong mark in Bollywood with films such as ‘Animal’ and ‘Chhaava’.

“She will likely be more selective about Telugu films, opting for star-studded projects, while expanding her presence in Bollywood and giving leading Hindi actresses tough competition,” he says.

Rashmika has already made her mark in Tamil cinema with ‘Varisu’, alongside superstar Vijay, and is set to take on more Tamil projects.

“She is not just a talented actress but also an exceptional dancer, a combination that will propel her to even greater heights. At just 30, she has already achieved superstardom and continues to expand her fan base, earning the title of ‘National Crush a long the way’,” he add