‘They Make A Great Pair’: Ranabaali Director On Casting Rashmika Mandanna Opposite Vijay Deverakonda

Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s upcoming film Ranabaali is one of the most-awaited films. Well, director Rahul Sankrityan opened up about casting Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead and the impact of the duo’s popularity on the project. During a conversation, the filmmaker shared details about the thought process behind bringing Rashmika on board for the film.

In conversation with Variety India, Rahul Sankrityan shared the story behind the casting of Rashmika Mandanna as Vijay Devarakonda’s on-screen wife, Jayamma. He said, “Initially, we were discussing multiple options for this character. But we wanted a female actor with a pan-India presence because we want to pitch this story to the national audience as well. And that is how we signed

Rashmika. They make a great pair and there is good chemistry between them.”

The director continued, “It is just a happy coincidence that they have got married because there is already a huge interest in them as a couple, and they also play a couple in this film. Actually, I wasn’t aware that they were going to make their relationship official. But after some time, Vijay informed me about their wedding plans. Their real-life relationship will help my film.”

Vijay Deverakonda And Rashmika Mandanna Reunite After Seven Years

The first look of Ranabaali was unveiled on Monday, January 26, offering a striking visual introduction to Vijay Deverakonda’s character. The teaser shows Vijay as a fierce warrior mounted on a horse, dragging a British officer across rugged terrain — a raw, confrontational image that hints at rebellion, resistance, and buried histories.

About Ranabaali

Set in 19th-century India, Ranabaali is inspired by real-life events said to have occurred between 1854 and 1878 during British rule. The first glimpse suggests the film explores a dark chapter of colonial history, referencing large-scale violence, staggering economic plunder and human loss during that period.

In the film, Vijay plays a freedom fighter named Ranabaali, a character positioned as fierce and uncompromising in his rebellion. Rashmika will portray Jayamma, a pivotal role expected to anchor the emotional core of the story. Actor Arnold Vosloo is set to appear as the antagonist, Sir Theodore Hector.

The makers have locked September 11, 2026, as the film’s theatrical release date.