Saw the film for the first time on release day: Rashmika Mandanna

Rashmika Mandanna is the latest Tollywood sensation after her stellar performance in the recently released Geetha Govindam, where she was paired opposite Vijay Deverakonda. “While I was shooting, I didn’t watch the monitor to check my performance. I saw the film for the first time on the day of its release, and thoroughly enjoyed it,” says Rashmika, whose first film Chalo was also a success.

“It’s very difficult to take up a strong role and speak so many dialogues but I am honoured to get such a role for my second film,” says the actress.

Interestingly, before Rashmika took up the project, three actresses signed up and then dropped the film. “I heard about it too,” says Rashmika, adding, “I don’t know why they didn’t do this film, but that’s their own choice. Female actresses being replaced is nothing new. But when director Parasuram narrated the script, I liked it and really wanted to do the film.”

The actress reveals that she had to juggle her dates to star in the film. “I was shooting for two other films and it was the beginning of my career, so I didn’t know how to adjust the dates. I requested them (the filmmakers) to allow me to complete my films before working on this one,” says Rashmika, adding that she consults her parents before signing any film.

“Yes, I took a decision after discussing with my parents. The director narrated the story to my parents too and they were worried that I’d be stressed out as I was busy with my other films, but I told them that I really wanted to do Geetha’s role,” she reveals.

Rashmika adds that acting with Vijay Deverakonda was a lot of fun. “He is very hard working and always wants to give his best. On the sets, he has no airs. He is always fun and chilled out,” she says, revealing that she has signed another film, Dear Comrade with him, in which she plays a cricketer.

“That’s the only sport I never played. But for this film, I am learning how to play it,” she shares. Dismissing rumours about the breakup of her engagement with actor Rakshit Shetty, Rashmika says, “We are continuously in touch and have a better understanding of each other.”

As for marriage plans, the actress says, “I don’t know, I didn’t date him much, so I am doing that now.”