Rashmika Mandanna compares Vijay Deverakonda performance in Ranabaali to Allu Arjun's in Pushpa 2 The Rule

Rashmika Mandanna has highlighted the extent of Vijay Deverakonda’s transformation in Ranabaali, describing a clear divide between the actor and the character he plays.

Her comments place Deverakonda’s performance at the centre of attention as discussion around the film continues. Rashmika also compared his portrayal with the impact associated with Allu Arjun’s performance in Pushpa 2: The Rule, although the available remarks focus primarily on Deverakonda’s immersion in the role.

A distinct identity on set

Rashmika said the difference was not limited to scenes filmed for the movie. She recalled that even when she spoke to Deverakonda away from shooting, she sensed the presence of Ranabaali rather than the actor himself.

“When I was seeing Ranabaali be Ranabaali, there’s a full difference between Vijay and Ranabaali. Completely,” she said.

She added that conversations off camera carried the same feeling, explaining that there was “one sense of Ranabaali” and asking, “where is Viju?”

Why the performance stands out

Rashmika’s account suggests that Deverakonda maintained the character’s identity beyond his filmed scenes. Her observation offers a personal view of how strongly the role shaped his presence during production.

The remarks also connect Ranabaali with wider discussions of memorable Telugu cinema performances, while keeping the focus on the separation Rashmika observed between Deverakonda and his screen persona.

Conclusion

For Rashmika, Deverakonda’s work in Ranabaali was convincing because the character appeared to remain present even when the cameras were not rolling. Her comments underline the performance’s distinctive impact without detailing a broader assessment of the film.