Rashmika Mandanna has praised Vijay Deverakonda’s performance in their latest film, Ranabaali, comparing his transformation into the titular character to Allu Arjun’s portrayal of Pushpa Raj in Pushpa 2: The Rule. Speaking at a press conference in Hyderabad, the actress explained how deeply Vijay immersed himself in his role, making him appear like a completely different person on screen.
Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, Ranabaali reunites Vijay and Rashmika on screen in a period action drama. The film arrived in theatres on October 16, 2026, and has attracted attention for its historical setting, performances and the lead actors’ reunion.
Rashmika Mandanna Praises Vijay Deverakonda’s Transformation
At the film’s press conference, Rashmika spoke about the striking difference between Vijay Deverakonda in real life and the character he portrays in Ranabaali. She explained that even while working together on set, she sometimes found it difficult to connect the actor she knew personally with the character he was playing.
According to Rashmika, Vijay’s transformation was so convincing that she wondered where the familiar Viju had gone whenever she saw him performing as Ranabaali. She said it took her some time to understand the depth and intensity with which he had approached the character.
The actress also reflected on their previous collaborations, including Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade. While those films gave audiences a glimpse of their on-screen chemistry, she felt that Ranabaali offered a distinctly different experience. Rashmika suggested that certain characters completely consume an actor, with every part of their performance reflecting the emotions of the role. She felt Vijay had reached that level of immersion in the historical drama.
Why Rashmika Compared Vijay’s Role To Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2
Rashmika drew a parallel between Vijay’s portrayal of Ranabaali and Allu Arjun’s transformation into Pushpa Raj in Pushpa 2: The Rule. Having worked with Allu Arjun in the Pushpa franchise, she said she had witnessed a similar difference between the actor’s off-screen personality and his on-screen character. She recalled that Allu Arjun as himself and Allu Arjun as Pushpa felt like two entirely different people. Rashmika experienced a comparable shift when watching Vijay perform as Ranabaali.
The comparison was about the actors’ ability to disappear into their characters rather than a claim that one performance was superior to the other. Rashmika highlighted how convincing portrayals can create a sense of distance between an actor’s familiar personality and the person audiences see on screen. She also described Vijay as a major driving force behind the film, calling him a “one-man show” when discussing the overall experience of watching Ranabaali.
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What Rashmika Said About Sharing Vijay’s Success
Rashmika also spoke about how she views Vijay’s achievements, explaining that their personal relationship has changed the way they experience professional milestones. She said they share each other’s happiness, struggles and experiences, making it difficult to separate his success from her own.
The actress expressed the sentiment that they no longer see their lives as entirely separate, adding that she hopes Ranabaali becomes a huge blockbuster. She extended the same hope to the films they make in the future. Her comments offered a glimpse into the support they share as partners while continuing to pursue their individual careers in the film industry.
Ranabaali Brings Vijay And Rashmika Together In A Period Drama
Ranabaali is directed by Rahul Sankrityan and stars Vijay Deverakonda as Singanamala Bobbili Ranabaali, with Rashmika Mandanna playing Jayamma. The period action drama is set against the backdrop of British colonial rule in the Rayalaseema region and draws on historical accounts from the nineteenth century. Hollywood actor Arnold Vosloo also appears in a key role as the film’s antagonist.
The project is presented by T-Series Films and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, with music and background score composed by Ajay-Atul. The film marks another collaboration between Vijay and Rashmika after their earlier successful pairings. Their performances, particularly Vijay’s transformation into the titular character, have become a key talking point following the theatrical release.
Final Take
Rashmika Mandanna’s comparison of Vijay Deverakonda’s Ranabaali performance with Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 role highlights the depth of character transformation she witnessed in both actors. Rather than ranking the performances, she emphasised their ability to inhabit fictional personalities so completely that they seem like different people on screen. Her praise also reflects the personal and professional support she shares with Vijay as they continue their film journeys.
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