Rashmika Mandanna’s Blockbuster Run: Four Major Films in Seven Months, Thama Awaits in October 2025
Mumbai, June 11, 2025 – Rashmika Mandanna, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actresses, is dominating 2025 with an unprecedented streak of high-profile releases. With four major films—*Pushpa 2: The Rule*, *Chhaava*, *Sikandar*, and the upcoming *Kubera*—hitting theaters between December 2024 and July 2025, Mandanna is cementing her status as a pan-India superstar. Fans are already buzzing about her next venture, Thama , slated for a grand Diwali release on October 19, 2025.
A Stellar Start with Pushpa 2: The Rule
Mandanna kicked off her remarkable run with *Pushpa 2: The Rule*, released in December 2024. Reprising her role as Srivalli opposite Allu Arjun, she delivered a performance that captivated audiences and critics alike. The film, a sequel to the 2021 blockbuster *Pushpa: The Rise*, shattered box office records, becoming one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time. Its global appeal and Mandanna’s chemistry with Arjun were pivotal to its success, with reports estimating a worldwide gross exceeding ₹1,000 crore. Although some criticized her role for limited depth, Mandanna’s portrayal of Srivalli underscored her ability to shine in larger-than-life narratives.
Chhaava: A Historical Triumph
In February 2025, Mandanna starred as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale in *Chhaava*, a historical action drama alongside Vicky Kaushal, who portrayed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Maddock Films, the film grossed over ₹600 crore net in India and ₹807.6 crore worldwide, making it the first non-sequel Hindi film to achieve this milestone. Despite mixed reviews about her role’s one-dimensionality, Mandanna’s emotional depth and screen presence earned praise, contributing to the film’s historic success. Released in theaters on February 14, 2025, and later on Netflix on April 11, *Chhaava* solidified her versatility in period dramas.
Sikandar: A Mixed Bag with Salman Khan
March 2025 saw Mandanna team up with Salman Khan in *Sikandar*, directed by A.R. Murugadoss. Playing Rani Saishri, the wife of Khan’s titular character, she brought grace to a role that some critics argued reinforced submissive stereotypes. Despite high expectations, the action thriller underperformed, grossing ₹90 crore in India by its fifth day, falling short of *Chhaava*’s ₹31 crore opening. Negative reviews cited a sluggish narrative and piracy issues as setbacks, though Mandanna’s performance was noted as a highlight. Released on March 30, 2025, ahead of Eid, the film marked her first collaboration with Khan but ended her streak of blockbusters.
Kubera: The Next Big Release
Mandanna is now gearing up for *Kubera*, a Telugu-language film featuring Nagarjuna and Dhanush, set to release in July 2025. After wrapping *Thama*’s final leg in Ooty, she has shifted focus to this multi-starrer, which promises a fresh narrative and a dynamic role. Industry sources highlight her packed schedule, with *Kubera* expected to showcase her ability to balance intense drama and commercial appeal. The film, alongside her Telugu release *The Girlfriend* later this year, underscores her strong presence in South Indian cinema.
Thama: A Bold Step into Horror-Comedy
Looking ahead, Mandanna will star in *Thama*, a vampire horror-comedy directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by Maddock Films. Set for release on October 19, 2025, during Diwali, the film pairs her with Ayushmann Khurrana and features Paresh Rawal and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. As part of Maddock’s horror-comedy universe, *Thama* is generating significant buzz for its unique premise and star-studded cast. Originally slated to clash with Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela’s musical romance, its solo release has heightened expectations for another box office win.
A Pan-India Powerhouse
Mandanna’s 2025 lineup reflects her versatility across genres—action, historical drama, thriller, and horror-comedy—and her appeal across Bollywood and Tollywood. With *Animal* (2023), *Pushpa 2*, and *Chhaava* collectively contributing to a staggering ₹3,610 crore at the box office from 2023 to 2025, she has emerged as one of India’s most bankable stars. However, critiques of typecasting, particularly as the “submissive wife” in films like *Animal*, *Pushpa*, *Chhaava*, and *Sikandar*, have sparked discussions about her role choices. Her upcoming projects, especially *Thama* and *Kubera*, are seen as opportunities to break this mold and showcase her range.
Fan Frenzy and Industry Buzz
The excitement surrounding Mandanna’s releases is palpable on social media, with fans on X hailing her as the “queen of 2025.” Posts highlight the unmatched hype for *Chhaava*, *Sikandar*, *Kubera*, and *Thama*, predicting potential hits. Her ability to juggle multiple high-stakes projects while maintaining a strong fanbase has made her a standout in Indian cinema. Industry insiders note that her involvement in *Pushpa 3: The Rampage* and *Animal Park* further solidifies her long-term dominance.
A Year of Unstoppable Momentum
As Rashmika Mandanna prepares for *Kubera* and *Thama*, her relentless work ethic and box office pull are undeniable. With four major releases in just seven months and a fifth poised to close the year, 2025 is shaping up to be a defining chapter in her career. Whether navigating historical epics, action thrillers, or supernatural comedies, Mandanna continues to captivate audiences, proving she’s a force to be reckoned with in Indian cinema.
