Rashmika Mandanna awaits the release of 'DevaDas' on Sept 27. In this interview, she talks about the film, how she bagged the role, what she looks for before accepting a role, why she doesn't want to talk about her personal life and more.

How did you land this prestigious film?

I got to know about this project when I was doing 'Geetha Govindam'. I am a demotivated person and so I thought this might not work for me because Vyjayanthi Movies is a big production house. Nevertheless, I met Swapna Dutt mam and the director. I was just hoping I will get the character. They gave me the character sketch and auditioned me for the role to know me more. Aditya Sriram sir found me fit for the role. When I was selected, I was very excited.

What is your character in 'DevaDas'?

She is a girl-next-door who also throws up some surprises. She comes across as a simple girl but there is more to her. I have done this movie because I loved the character. I have done this movie not only because it's a multi-starrer, but also because I loved my character.

After a blockbuster like 'Geetha Govindam', what can we expect from you in the movie?

Nag sir and Nani sir's bromance will definitely work. I myself am highly impressed with them. But then, every story needs girls. So, I and Aakansha Singh are there in the movie. If I talk more about my role, the surprise will be gone. Most of the films I have done are comedies. 'DevaDas' is different in that it's a story between two male characters. Multi-starrers are exciting. It's a parallel story between Deva and Dasu.

How was it working with Nagarjuna and Nani?

I got to work with Nag sir so less (just for two days). Nag sir is such a happy person. He always keeps smiling. It's always great to work with such people. Working with Nani sir was a learning experience as he constantly works towards improvisation of lines and performance. If I had any doubt, I would run to either Nani sir or the director.

So, what do you look for in a character?

Since 'Chalo', I have been particular about what I play. It has to be both versatile and comfortable. My priorities are the same.

How do you assess your performance during the making of a movie?

I don't look at the monitor during the making of a film. I go to the director, to the cinematographer, and others to ask them what they think about my performance. I don't judge myself looking into the monitor.

What are your films in Telugu? Have you signed up Nithin's 'Bheeshma'? Why don't you do Tamil?

I am doing 'Dear Comrade' (with Vijay Deverakonda). If I am okayed for any project, the production house itself will tell it. I get messages from people from Chennai asking me to work in Kollywood. I am excited about Tamil but I have to meet people's expectations. I am doing a film named 'Yajamana' in Kannada.

There is so much being written about your personal life. Why have you called off your engagement to Rakshit Shetty?

This is a 'DevaDas' interview and I can't talk about my personal life. My producer will scold me (laughs). Whatever I may say now, it might end up being trivialized. I speak to my fans directly via social media platforms. Twitter, Instagram, etc are the media through which I talk to fans about my personal life.