Rashmika Mandanna Discusses Her Transformation into Maharani Yesubai for 'Chhaava'

Key Takeaways

Rashmika Mandanna's heartfelt journey of becoming Maharani Yesubai.
Her unexpected path to securing the role in 'Chhaava'.
The emotional connection she feels with her character.
Gratitude towards director Laxman Utekar for his vision.
The importance of dreaming beyond boundaries in the film industry.

Mumbai, Feb 14 (NationPress) As the film 'Chhaava', featuring Rashmika Mandanna and Vicky Kaushal, premieres in theaters today on February 14, 2025, the 'Goodbye' actress expressed her heartfelt reflections on her transformation into Maharani Yesubai.

Rashmika shared her journey of securing the role in 'Chhaava', stating, 'Maharani Yesubai'... I consider myself a more competent writer than a speaker, so here it goes. After watching the film Mimi, which I absolutely adored, I felt compelled to invite Laxman sir for the screening of my film Goodbye. I messaged him, and that's when the journey began. He immediately asked if he could call me, and we spoke about him wanting to meet me for his next project. Initially, I thought he was just being polite, but the meeting actually took place, and it filled me with immense joy. I am sincerely grateful to the universe for this.

She continued, 'I had no knowledge of the story, nor did I understand why they approached me, or how they envisioned me as the Maharani. When I finally heard the narration, I felt a mix of confusion, shock, gratitude, and overwhelming happiness, unsure of how to respond because I was clueless about how we would accomplish this.'

Rashmika also recounted her experience portraying a Maharani on screen, stating, 'A girl from the south taking on the role of Maharani Yesubai was something I never anticipated... It was a dream I never thought possible. That's why I cherish collaborating with individuals who inspire us to dream without limits. The Maharani emerged in all her splendor: fierce, powerful, graceful—a true queen. Her love resonates with me; it is pure, divine, respectful, and profound, connecting Maharaj and Maharani beyond mere words.'

Expressing her admiration for director Laxman Utekar, she concluded, 'Laxman sir (@laxman.utekar), I hold you in such high regard. I’ve never told you this before, but you truly are THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PERSON I’VE EVER MET. I feel incredibly blessed to have crossed paths with you. I may not speak much due to my shyness, but I genuinely mean every word.'