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Rashmika Mandanna, who played a lead role in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s ‘Animal’, has come forward to defend the film amid ongoing criticism for its alleged toxic masculinity and hyper-violent themes.
In a recent interview, Rashmika Mandanna addressed the backlash by saying, “No one is forcing you to go and watch the film. You have the freedom to not consume something that doesn’t align with your taste.”
Her comment echoes a similar stance taken by Kareena Kapoor Khan, who in the past defended films and filmmakers facing criticism over content. During the release of Kabir Singh, also directed by Vanga, and other films with polarising themes, Kareena had stated, “We’re in a democracy. People can choose what to watch. No one is being dragged into the theatre.”
What Do The Actresses' Statements Mean?
Both actresses are essentially reinforcing the idea of viewer agency that audiences can make their own choices, and not every film needs to cater to every viewer’s moral expectations.
However, Rashmika's statement is more reactive, given her direct association with Animal while Kareena’s comments were broader and framed in defense of creative freedom and personal taste.
Critics argue that such comments, while technically valid, often sidestep the larger discourse on the social impact of mass cinema. Supporters, however, applaud them for upholding artistic liberty and respecting audience autonomy.
Ultimately, both Rashmika and Kareena represent a growing list of Bollywood voices urging for a balance between artistic expression and responsible viewership in a deeply divided pop culture landscape.
