/odishatv/media/media_files/2025/10/08/vijay-deverakonda-sandeep-r-vanga-and-rashmika-mandanna-2025-10-08-16-15-28.jpg)
Vijay Deverakonda, Sandeep R Vanga and Rashmika Mandanna Photograph: (Edited by Nitesh Kumar)
Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga made his remarkable debut in 2017 with the Telugu blockbuster Arjun Reddy. The romantic drama not only showcased Vijay Deverakonda’s acting prowess but also marked the beginning of a strong bond between the actor and the filmmaker. Years later, history seemed to repeat itself when Vanga collaborated with Ranbir Kapoor in Animal (2023). During the film’s promotions, Ranbir shared an interesting anecdote linking Sandeep, Rashmika Mandanna, and her fiancé Vijay Deverakonda.
Related Story: Vijay Deverakonda's team CONFIRMS Kingdom actor's engagement with Rashmika Mandanna
When Vijay Joined Rashmika and Ranbir for Animal Promotions
Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, who recently got engaged in a private ceremony, are reportedly planning to tie the knot in February 2026. Before their engagement, the duo had shared screen space in popular films such as Geetha Govindam (2018) and Dear Comrade (2019), which led to widespread dating speculations. Although the actors never confirmed their relationship, they were frequently spotted together on several occasions, including vacations, fueling further rumours.
Interestingly, amid this buzz, Vijay surprised everyone by joining Rashmika and Ranbir Kapoor during Animal promotions via a phone call on Nandamuri Balakrishna’s talk show. This left Rashmika blushing, while Ranbir couldn’t resist teasing her, adding to the lighthearted moment.
Rashmika’s Connection With Arjun Reddy
In a resurfaced video from the same show, Rashmika revealed, “I watched Arjun Reddy on the first day of its release, so I have like one connection with Arjun Reddy. And Animal is my film, so I like both of them, sir.”
When host Nandamuri Balakrishna curiously asked about her connection with the film, Rashmika explained with a shy smile that she had watched Vijay’s Arjun Reddy after moving to Hyderabad.
Ranbir’s Candid Revelation That Left Fans Cheering
At that moment, Ranbir Kapoor jumped in to share a surprising trivia. “And actually sir, there’s a coincidence story that Sandeep met Rashmika the first day at the Arjun Reddy success party, on Vijay’s terrace,” he revealed.
The revelation instantly drew cheers from the audience while Rashmika turned visibly red, blushing.
Must Read: Bobby Deol breaks silence on ‘overshadowing’ Ranbir Kapoor in Animal, 'Abrar’s impact existed because...'
Meanwhile, everyone around enjoyed the adorable coincidence that tied her, Vijay, and Sandeep together long before Animal came into being.