At the celebratory event for Kuberaa in Hyderabad, attention shifted momentarily from box office figures to an on-stage moment that sparked both admiration and debate. Actors Nagarjuna and Chiranjeevi, veterans of the Telugu film industry, publicly expressed their admiration for co-star Rashmika Mandanna, referring to her as their “crush”—a light-hearted remark that drew applause at the venue but also triggered criticism online due to the significant age difference between the actors and Rashmika.
Rashmika Compared to Sridevi
During the event held on June 22, Nagarjuna openly praised Rashmika’s performance in Kuberaa, saying that her presence reminded him of iconic actress Sridevi, particularly in Kshana Kshanam. He noted that Rashmika lit up every frame and acknowledged her growing popularity by referring to her as the “National Crush.” With a smile, he added that after Kuberaa, she had become his crush as well.
Chiranjeevi, who joined in the appreciation, playfully responded that Rashmika was not just Nagarjuna’s crush but his too. The camaraderie and compliments drew smiles on stage, and Rashmika herself was seen blushing and making heart gestures in response.
Online Backlash Over Comments
However, the light-hearted exchange didn’t land well with everyone. As videos from the event began circulating on social media, several users expressed discomfort over the age dynamics involved. Critics questioned the appropriateness of referring to a much younger colleague as a “crush,” suggesting that such remarks, even if made in jest, felt outdated and unwelcome in professional settings.
One user pointed out the generational gap, stating that Rashmika is young enough to be their granddaughter, while another called for more focus on her acting rather than personal admiration.
Nagarjuna Calls Rashmika a “Powerhouse of Talent”
Notably, this wasn’t the first time Nagarjuna had commended Rashmika’s work. At an earlier promotional event for Kuberaa, he highlighted her impressive streak of successful films, calling her one of the most bankable stars in recent years. According to him, Rashmika’s box office pull had even outshone many established male actors, which he described as a remarkable feat.
About Kuberaa
Directed by Sekhar Kammula, Kuberaa is a crime thriller featuring an ensemble cast including Dhanush, Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, Jim Sarbh, and Dalip Tahil. The film follows the journey of a beggar who becomes entangled in a high-stakes conspiracy involving a former CBI officer and a powerful corporate magnate. It explores themes of ambition, greed, and morality.
Released on June 20 in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi, the film has been performing strongly at the box office. Within three days, it collected Rs 48.50 crore, with numbers crossing the Rs 50 crore mark shortly after. Audiences and critics alike have praised the performances of both Dhanush and Rashmika, crediting their portrayals for the film’s success.
Rashmika Compared to Sridevi
During the event held on June 22, Nagarjuna openly praised Rashmika’s performance in Kuberaa, saying that her presence reminded him of iconic actress Sridevi, particularly in Kshana Kshanam. He noted that Rashmika lit up every frame and acknowledged her growing popularity by referring to her as the “National Crush.” With a smile, he added that after Kuberaa, she had become his crush as well.Chiranjeevi, who joined in the appreciation, playfully responded that Rashmika was not just Nagarjuna’s crush but his too. The camaraderie and compliments drew smiles on stage, and Rashmika herself was seen blushing and making heart gestures in response.
Online Backlash Over Comments
However, the light-hearted exchange didn’t land well with everyone. As videos from the event began circulating on social media, several users expressed discomfort over the age dynamics involved. Critics questioned the appropriateness of referring to a much younger colleague as a “crush,” suggesting that such remarks, even if made in jest, felt outdated and unwelcome in professional settings.One user pointed out the generational gap, stating that Rashmika is young enough to be their granddaughter, while another called for more focus on her acting rather than personal admiration.
Nagarjuna Calls Rashmika a “Powerhouse of Talent”
Notably, this wasn’t the first time Nagarjuna had commended Rashmika’s work. At an earlier promotional event for Kuberaa, he highlighted her impressive streak of successful films, calling her one of the most bankable stars in recent years. According to him, Rashmika’s box office pull had even outshone many established male actors, which he described as a remarkable feat.About Kuberaa
Directed by Sekhar Kammula, Kuberaa is a crime thriller featuring an ensemble cast including Dhanush, Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, Jim Sarbh, and Dalip Tahil. The film follows the journey of a beggar who becomes entangled in a high-stakes conspiracy involving a former CBI officer and a powerful corporate magnate. It explores themes of ambition, greed, and morality.Released on June 20 in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi, the film has been performing strongly at the box office. Within three days, it collected Rs 48.50 crore, with numbers crossing the Rs 50 crore mark shortly after. Audiences and critics alike have praised the performances of both Dhanush and Rashmika, crediting their portrayals for the film’s success.
