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MS Subbulakshmi 'chose' Rashmika for biopic: Allu Aravind addresses casting debate
At the launch of the MS Subbulakshmi biopic, producer Allu Aravind and actor Kamal Haasan backed Rashmika Mandanna's casting. Their remarks came as debate continued over the choice, with actor Vidya Balan's earlier link to the role resurfacing.
Producer Allu Aravind has said that legendary Carnatic singer MS Subbulakshmi herself "chose" actor Rashmika Mandanna for her upcoming biopic, MS - A Legacy On Screen, addressing public criticism surrounding the casting choice over Vidya Balan. The film, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, was officially launched on Wednesday evening under the joint production banners of Geetha Arts, Rockline Entertainment, and Bunny Vas Works.
Speaking at the launch event, Aravind addressed the late icon directly, saying, "We’re all together not making your biopic, amma. You have chosen us to make it." Elaborating on Mandanna's casting, he added, "Likewise, she (MS Subbulakshmi) has chosen Rashmika for this role. Rashmika, it is not (what) we requested; she has chosen and sent us as agents to you." Echoing his sentiment, Mandanna expressed her gratitude, thanking the singer for "choosing me to be a small part of your life.
Actor Kamal Haasan also publicly backed Mandanna, acknowledging the weight of the role while encouraging her. Likening the pressure to an actor featruing in a Michael Jackson biopic, Haasan mentioned that capturing the legend's essence was key. He said, "If you bring that compassion in your eyes, you have won half the battle. You have to do it bravely."
The online backlash surrounding the announcement largely stems from a shelved 2013 project by filmmaker Rajiv Menon, which was originally set to star Vidya Balan as the musician. Interest in Balan playing the role resurfaced in 2024 following a tribute photoshoot she conducted in honour of the Carnatic legend.
Earlier, Sai Pallavi was also reportedly set to play MS Subbalakshmi in the biopic. However, Rashmika Mandanna has now been finalised to play the role.
Meanwhile, Rashmika has wrapped her portions in the upcoming Telugu period drama, Ranabaali. She will be seen opposite Vijay Deverakonda in the film, marking their on-screen reunion following successful ventures like Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade.
