Rashmika Mandanna
With back-to-back hits, ‘National Crush’ Rashmika Mandanna has firmly established herself as one of the leading actresses in the Indian film industry. With blockbusters like Animal, Pushpa 2, Chaava, and now Sikandar with superstar Salman Khan, Rashmika has come a long way in her career span.
Known for her versatile acting, charming screen presence, and natural appeal, she has quickly become a fan favourite across multiple languages, including Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi cinema. However, her growing popularity among the masses has also put her life in danger.
Karnataka Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga has sparked controversy after he stated that the actress ‘must be taught a lesson’. While speaking to the media, the legislator revealed of being furious after Rashmika refused to attend the International Film Festival.
“Rashmika Mandanna, who started her career with the Kannada movie ‘Kirik Party’, in Karnataka, refused to attend the International Film Festival last year when we invited her. ‘I have my house in Hyderabad, I don’t know where Karnataka is, and I don’t have time. I can’t come,’ she said. One of our legislator friends visited her house 10-12 times to invite her but she refused and even disregarded Kannada, despite growing up in the industry here. Shouldn’t we teach them a lesson?” Gowda allegedly stated.
Meanwhile, the Kodava National Council and other community groups demanded enhanced security for Rashmika Mandanna, citing threats following the MLA’s statements. They highlighted her cultural significance as a Kodava icon and urged authorities to address safety concerns for her and other community women.
BJP leaders including Rajeev Chandrasekhar condemned Ganiga’s 'teach a lesson' remark as unconstitutional. Ganiga later clarified he wasn’t advocating 'rowdyism' but insisted Rashmika Mandanna must respect her roots.