Leading actress Rashmika Mandanna opened up about the things that have been "troubling" her for a "few days or weeks or months or maybe even years now" on Tuesday, November 8. Fondly called the 'National Crush of India', the star in a detailed post on social media spoke about how she has been on the receiving end of hatred while being a "punching bag" for trolls on social media. Rashmika started off by saying, "Hi so.. A couple of things have been troubling me these last few days or weeks or months or maybe even years now, and I think it's time I address it. I am only speaking for myself - something I should have done years ago. I have been on the receiving end of a lot of hate ever since I started my career. Quite literally a punching bag for a lot of trolls and negativity out there." The Pushpa actress continued, "I know that the life I've chosen comes with a price- I understand that I'm not everyone's cup of tea and certainly don't expect to be loved by every single person out there. That doesn't mean because you don't approve of me you can spew negativity instead. Only I know the kind of work I put in, day in and day out to make you all happy. The happiness you feel from the work I put out is what I care about most. I really am trying the best I can to put out things that both you and I are proud of." 

Rashmika further stated, "It's heart breaking and frankly quite demoralising when I'm being ridiculed and mocked by the internet especially for things that I Have Not Said. I've found that bits of things I've said in interviews are being turned against me. False narratives being spread across the internet that can be very harmful to me and the relationships I have in or outside the industry. I welcome constructive criticism because that's only going to push me to improve and do better. But what's with the vile negativity and hate? For the longest time I've been told to ignore it. But it has only gotten worse. By addressing it, I'm not trying to win anyone over. I don't want to feel closeted and forced to change as a human being because of this hate I keep receiving." 

Concluding her statement, Rashmika said, "I do recognise and acknowledge all the love I've been receiving from the rest of you. Your constant love and support is what has kept me going and given me the courage to come out and say this. I only have love for everyone around me, the people I've worked with so far, all of whom I've always admired. I will continue to work hard and do better for you. Because like I said, making you happy -makes me happy. Be kind everyone. We're all trying to do our best." The Sulthan actress' soon after was flooded with comments filled with love and support, including her Sita Ramam co-star Dulquer Salmaan writing, "The love is from those who want to be like you. Hate is from those who never can. You be you ! You is amazing," while Naane Varuvean actress Elli AvrRam said, "Big kuchipuchiii hug to you." Below is Rashmika's post:

On the work front, Rashmika Mandanna, who was recently seen alongside legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan in Goodbye, is awaiting the release of her next big Tamil film, Varisu, opposite 'Thalapathy' Vijay, which is set to open in cinemas worldwide for Pongal in January 2023. She also has in the pipeline the spy thriller film Mission Majnu with Sidharth Malhotra and Ranbir Kapoor's Animal in Hindi. Rashmika will reprise her role as Srivalli soon and begin filming for Pushpa 2: The Rule alongside Allu Arjun under Sukumar's direction.