Ahead of the release of 'Bheeshma' on February 21, Rashmika Mandanna describes the rom-com as a cute movie. Directed by Venky Kudumula, the film stars Nithiin as the male lead. Saying that the chemistry between him and her is superb in the entertainer, the 'Sarileru Neekevvaru' actress adds that the songs and the entire film have shaped up really well. In this interview, catch the Kannada beauty talk more about 'Bheeshma', working with Sitara Entertainments' Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and more.

The film has this song where Nithiin sobs that he is a single forever guy. Ironically, he has got engaged while you are single.

(Laughs). This is what I and director Venky too recently joked. We have remained singles forever!

Have you watched 'Bheeshma'?

I am yet to watch the movie. I watched my portions during the dubbing phase. I am waiting for its release with all enthusiasm. I am enjoying promoting 'Bheeshma' as much as I did while doing the movie.

We have seen you in bubbly roles. What kind of Rashmika are we going to see in 'Bheeshma'?

You can expect strong entertainment from the movie. I can't be the judge of my own film. I have played a young woman named Chaitra, who is nice. I work with a company and am more than anything. Generally speaking, the film will have you laughing throughout. After this film, my acting, dancing skills and other abilities will come in for appreciation.

How was it working with Anant Nag?

He is like a father figure to me. I got to work with him for 4-5 days in combination scenes. Since he too is from Karnataka, we used to converse a lot. I have always been a fan of his acting. He would inquire me about my movies. I enjoyed working with him totally.

Does the film talk about organic farming?

Yes. My friends too are thrilled about knowing what the film says about organic farming. Director Venky has projected the message with the screenplay. There is preachiness anywhere. The film is not about organic farming in the main. It's the journey of a man. Organic farming is a part of his journey.

Does the film talk about the distress of farmers in a realistic manner?

We all know about the plight of farmers today. They are victims of indebtedness and are unable to give proper education to their children. 'Bheeshma' does refer to the real issues. The film is primarily an entertainer in which organic farming is a part of the narration. It's implicit rather than explicit. That's what I understood at the time of dubbing for the movie. Farming is a delicate issue, which the film deals with in a way the audience can appreciate.

Since Nithiin is a huge fan of Pawan Kalyan, did he ever talk about Power Star in your presence?

He did tell me that he has been a die-hard fan of Pawan Kalyan garu from childhood. It is good to know that Nithiin continues to be his fan even after all these years of being an actor. He has met with Pawan garu a few times.

How was it working with Nithiin?

When I watched 'A Aa', I had this strong urge to make an entry into the film industry with such an entertainer. I loved Nithiin and Samantha in that film so much. I am glad to have got to work with the actor. Initially, before I started shooting with him, I was skeptical as to whether I will be able to get along with a senior like him. But he came across like a college boy, talking casually with people around. I felt very comfortable.

Did you always know about Nithiin's love story in real life?

No. I came to know about it just two days before his engagement. He hadn't shared it with me.

How was it working under Sitara Entertainments?

I happened to meet producer Naga Vamsi a few times before the film went on the floors. He is always pleasant. 'Bheeshma' comes with high production values and people are going to talk about them.

It has been just two years since 'Chalo' released and you have already attained stardom. How does it feel?

I have been doing the scripts that I liked. I don't know how much of this is because of my luck.

How did you celebrate Valentine's Day?

I went to the gym in the morning. But all the schedules for the rest of the day got cancelled. It was a boring V-Day actually. Nobody must have been through such a boring V-Day.

What are your criteria while choosing movies?

I give primary importance to the story. Then comes the character. If I feel that something is new, I will go for it. I am looking for even better characters now. I want to do exciting roles. The audience who come to the theatres should be provided with the best possible entertainment. A character can be emotional or entertaining, it should be ultimately likable to the audience.

When are you going to start shooting for the Allu Arjun movie?

I will join the shoot in mid-March. You are going to see a new Rashmika in the movie. It's directed by Sukumar garu.