In a remarkable achievement, actress Rashmika Mandanna has become the first Indian actress to star in three consecutive films that have each grossed over ₹500 crore at the box office. Her latest release, “Chhaava,” has joined the elite ₹500 crore club, following the massive successes of “Pushpa 2: The Rule” and “Animal.” This unprecedented feat not only underscores Rashmika’s rising stardom but also sets a new benchmark in the Indian film industry.
“Chhaava”: A Historic Triumph
Directed by Laxman Utekar, “Chhaava” is a historical drama that hit theaters on February 14, 2025. The film features Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, with Rashmika Mandanna portraying his wife, Yesubai. The narrative delves into the life and legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj, capturing his valor and contributions to Maratha history.
The film opened to impressive numbers, quickly surpassing the ₹100 crore mark within its initial days. Its momentum continued, and within 22 days, “Chhaava” comfortably crossed the ₹500 crore threshold, solidifying its status as a blockbuster. bollywoodhungama.com
“Pushpa 2: The Rule” and “Animal”: Box Office Behemoths
Prior to “Chhaava,” Rashmika starred in “Pushpa 2: The Rule,” which emerged as one of the highest-grossing Indian films, amassing approximately ₹1,850 crore worldwide. The film’s Hindi version alone contributed ₹830 crore to its total earnings, showcasing its pan-India appeal.
Before “Pushpa 2,” Rashmika featured in “Animal,” directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and co-starring Ranbir Kapoor. This film too made a significant impact at the box office, collecting around ₹917.82 crore globally. firstpost.com
Surpassing Industry Stalwarts
Rashmika’s consecutive successes have positioned her ahead of some of the industry’s leading actresses. Deepika Padukone, for instance, starred in two back-to-back ₹500 crore grossers—”Pathaan” and “Jawan.” However, Rashmika’s trilogy of ₹500 crore films sets her apart, marking an unprecedented accomplishment in Indian cinema.
A Versatile Talent
Rashmika Mandanna’s rise to prominence is a testament to her versatility and wide-ranging appeal. She seamlessly transitions between different film industries and genres, captivating audiences with each performance. In “Animal,” she portrayed a complex character opposite Ranbir Kapoor, while in “Pushpa 2,” she embraced the role of a rustic belle, complementing Allu Arjun’s rugged persona. In “Chhaava,” her portrayal of Yesubai added depth to the historical narrative, earning her critical acclaim.
Upcoming Projects
The momentum doesn’t seem to be slowing down for Rashmika. Her upcoming projects include “Sikandar,” where she stars alongside Salman Khan. Directed by AR Murugadoss, the film is slated for release on March 30, 2025, and is anticipated to be another box office juggernaut. mensxp.com
Additionally, Rashmika is set to feature in “Thama” with Ayushmann Khurrana, which is part of Maddock Films’ horror universe. She will also reunite with Allu Arjun for “Pushpa 3,” furthering the franchise that has already garnered massive success. Another notable project is “Animal Park,” where she teams up once again with Ranbir Kapoor. Moreover, she is set to lead a woman-centric pan-India film titled “The Girlfriend,” showcasing her commitment to diverse and substantial roles. firstpost.com
Industry Impact
Rashmika Mandanna’s achievements are not just personal milestones; they signify a shift in the industry dynamics. Her ability to draw audiences across different regions and languages highlights the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where content transcends linguistic and regional barriers. Producers and directors are likely to take note of her pan-India appeal, leading to more diverse and substantial roles for actresses in the future.
Furthermore, her success challenges the traditional norms of the industry, where male actors predominantly dominated the ₹500 crore club. Rashmika’s entry into this elite group paves the way for more female-centric narratives and substantial roles for women in Indian cinema.
Conclusion
Rashmika Mandanna’s historic achievement of starring in three consecutive ₹500 crore films is a testament to her talent, versatility, and mass appeal. As she continues to take on diverse roles and work across various film industries, she sets a new standard for success and representation in Indian cinema. Audiences and industry stakeholders alike eagerly await her future projects, anticipating that she will continue to break barriers and redefine success in the years to come.
