Rashmika Mandanna, one of India’s most celebrated actresses, has been making waves in the entertainment industry with her versatile performances and captivating screen presence. Known as the "National Crush of India," she has carved a niche for herself in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and Hindi cinema, earning accolades for her acting prowess and impeccable style. As of May 2025, Rashmika’s recent activities reflect her busy schedule, diverse projects, and growing influence both on and off the screen. This article delves into her recent professional endeavors, public appearances, and the buzz surrounding her stunning photoshoot stills, which have been turning heads across social media and entertainment platforms.
Recent Professional Activities
Rashmika Mandanna has been actively involved in multiple high-profile film projects, cementing her status as a pan-India actress. One of her most anticipated releases is Pushpa 2: The Rule, the sequel to the blockbuster Pushpa: The Rise, where she reprises her role as Srivalli opposite Allu Arjun. The film, directed by Sukumar, has garnered significant attention, with its trailer and promotional stills creating a frenzy among fans. Exclusive stills from the film’s sets in Patna, shared on social media platforms showcase Rashmika’s vibrant energy and chemistry with her co-star, further fueling excitement for the movie’s release.
In addition to Pushpa 2, Rashmika is currently filming Thama, a horror-comedy directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, co-starring Ayushmann Khurrana. Set in the universe of Stree and Bhediya, the film is being shot in Ooty, with key scenes, including the climax, scheduled for completion by late May 2025. Rashmika has shared glimpses of her time on set via social media, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at her dedication despite challenges like filming in extreme heat and managing a leg injury. Her YouTube vlog provided further insight into a typical shoot day, highlighting her transformation between takes and her enthusiasm for the project, slated for a Diwali 2025 release.
Other upcoming projects include Kubera, The Girlfriend, Rainbow, and Pushpa 3, showcasing her versatility across genres. Rashmika’s recent film Sikandar, alongside Salman Khan, enjoyed a decent theatrical run, while her performance in Chhaava (2025) as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale opposite Vicky Kaushal earned mixed reviews. Despite criticism for her casting as a Marathi queen and struggles with Hindi diction, her striking visual presence was noted by critics, and the film’s massive box office success—grossing over ₹8 billion—solidified her commercial appeal.
Public Appearances and Social Media Buzz
Beyond her film commitments, Rashmika has been a prominent figure at high-profile events. In 2024, she attended the Crunchyroll Anime Awards in Tokyo on March 2, walking the red carpet with elegance, and the FDCI India Couture Week in New Delhi on July 31, where she presented a creation by Falguni Shane Peacock. She also graced the premiere of Netflix’s Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar on April 24, 2024, and the blessings ceremony of Anant and Radhika Ambani on July 13, 2024, in Mumbai. These appearances, documented by Getty Images, highlight her growing stature as a fashion icon.
Rashmika’s social media presence is equally impactful, with her posts often going viral. A recent YouTube vlog detailed her shoot day in Bombay, while her Instagram updates, including a heartfelt birthday wish for Vijay Deverakonda on May 9, 2025, sparked renewed speculation about their rumored relationship. A cryptic Instagram note about choosing friends wisely also grabbed attention, showcasing her candid and relatable persona.
Hot Stills and Fashion Statements
Rashmika’s fashion choices have consistently captivated fans, with her photoshoot stills generating significant buzz. Social media posts on X describe her as effortlessly transitioning from "cute to hot," with images in a neon green blazer paired with a bralette, a three-piece blue sharara set, and a black ensemble likened to a "midnight dream" igniting the internet. Her traditional looks, such as a wine-colored saree and a red salwar suit with intricate gold embroidery, have been praised for their elegance, while modern outfits like a brown shirt dress with a Gen-Z aesthetic highlight her versatility.
A particularly notable photoshoot for Zohra Jabeen featured Rashmika in stunning stills that fans dubbed "too hot to handle," with one X user compiling a thread of 17 images showcasing her bold and glamorous side. Her minimalistic accessory choices, like hoop earrings and delicate necklaces, often let her outfits take center stage, as seen in posts describing her sizzling neon blazer look. These stills, shared across platforms like Pinterest and Filmibeat, underscore her ability to blend sophistication with contemporary flair.
Rashmika Mandanna’s recent activities reflect her dynamic career trajectory and magnetic appeal. From starring in blockbuster films like Pushpa 2 and Chhaava to captivating audiences with her fashion-forward stills, she continues to dominate the entertainment landscape. Her social media engagement and public appearances further amplify her influence, making her a beloved figure across India. As she balances a packed schedule with grace and poise, Rashmika remains a force to be reckoned with, both on-screen and in the style arena, leaving fans eagerly awaiting her next move.
Tags
Stills