Rashmika Mandanna is betting big on 'Dear Comrade', which releases on July 26. In this interview, the beauty talks about her role in the movie, pairing up with Vijay Deverakonda once again after 'Geetha Govindam', looking forward to working with Mahesh Babu and more.

Right from the time the Teaser and the First Single was out, expectations from the movie have been naturally high. What can we expect from 'Dear Comrade'?

It's an emotional film. I hope every emotion in the film and every message it delivers will establish a connect with the audience. The journey of Lilly (Rashmika) and Bobby (Vijay) will be a major highlight. Everyone will love it. I have no doubts about that.

There is so much going on about your role in the Trailer. We know that you have played a determined athlete who faces major obstacles in life. What exactly is your role in this youthful entertainer?

I have played the role of a state-level cricketer. Lilly falls in love with Bobby and her love has major consequences for her. How her journey with Bobby happens over the years is the crux.

So, have you got your cricketing right after playing this challenging role?

I didn't know much about cricket before playing the role. I worked on the basics of the game to pull off Lilly. Now that I have practised some game, I can safeguard my own wicket in a match (Laughs). I have successfully hit quite a few fours but sixes are not my thing.

Since Lilly seems to be an author-backed role, it would be good if you did the dubbing in all languages. Was it possible?

I have dubbed in Telugu and Kannada and not in Tamil and Malayalam. The character is indeed strongly-written. As we said at the recent music festival, every girl can relate to the struggles and ambitions of Lilly.

What exactly made you opt for 'DC'? Is it the story? Is it your character? Or is it the presence of a star hero like Vijay?

I didn't do this film for Vijay. I never do any film for anybody. I okayed it only because I was convinced that director Bharat Kamma has full command over the script. It all started with him mailing me the entire script. I couldn't read it. When Bharat met me to give a narration, I was highly impressed. I didn't delay to give the nod. For one, the story is quite interesting. That's the sole reason why I played Lilly.

Vijay D and the team at Mythri Movie Makers have been appreciated for carrying out the promotions in a new way. Your take?

Promotions are very important but the entire credit goes to Vijay and director Bharat. They have been planning all the promotions.

You have bagged a film opposite Mahesh Babu. What do you think ticks for you?

I am extremely lucky to have got to pair up with the superstar in 'Sarileru Neekevvaru'. My dedication and honest hard work have paid off. I am eagerly waiting to join the unit to shoot for my part.