The joyous milestone of a new chapter in Rashmika Mandanna’s life has been abruptly overshadowed by controversy. The South Indian actress has expressed intense anger after the circulation of a personal audio clip on social media, involving a private conversation between her mother, Sumana Mandanna, and references to Rashmika’s former partner, actor Rakshit Shetty. Multiple Indian media outlets, including Anandabazar, have reported the incident, highlighting the actress’s frustration over the breach of privacy.
The leaked audio, though recorded years ago, has resurfaced just as Rashmika embarks on her new journey with husband Vijay Deverakonda. In the clip, Rashmika’s mother is heard commenting on her past relationship, saying, “It is better that they broke up.” While the conversation dates back to 2016–2018, its sudden dissemination has understandably caused distress for the actress.
Rashmika, who has maintained a composed public persona throughout her career, made her stance clear: “I will not tolerate such incidents anymore. Anyone deliberately spreading this audio or exposing private information will face legal action if necessary. I have remained silent for years, focusing on my work and promoting positivity, but I will not remain silent in the face of intentional attacks.” She further emphasized that broadcasting personal matters in this manner is unethical and can negatively affect both an individual’s dignity and mental wellbeing.
Media reports also recall the timeline of Rashmika’s high-profile past relationship with Rakshit Shetty, once hailed as one of South Indian cinema’s ‘power couples’:
| Event | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Filming of Kirikk Party | 2016 | Beginning of Rashmika and Rakshit’s romantic relationship |
| Grand Engagement | 2017 | Celebrated publically as a major celebrity couple |
| Breakup | 2018 | Relationship ended within a year; neither party publicly commented |
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some netizens speculating that the timing of the leak—shortly after Rashmika’s wedding to Vijay Deverakonda—was intentional, potentially aimed at stirring controversy in her personal life. Others stress the dangers of revisiting old incidents to cast shadows over present-day happiness.
Rashmika and Vijay officially tied the knot on 26 February, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Fans have been celebrating the occasion across multiple ceremonies, including the pre-wedding ‘gaye holud’ and musical events, sharing moments from the couple’s festive celebrations online.
Despite the personal intrusion, Rashmika continues to focus on her film career across both South Indian cinema and Bollywood, asserting her right to privacy and setting a strong example for respecting personal boundaries in the age of social media.