Rajinikanth Endorses Rashmika Mandanna’s MS Subbulakshmi Biopic

Rashmika Mandanna’s pan-India turn as M. S. Subbulakshmi has just received the kind of blessing money cannot buy. On Wednesday, superstar Rajinikanth praised the biopic MS: A Legacy on Screen and the legendary singer at its Chennai launch, with Kamal Haasan also in attendance.

A blessing beyond the usual launch photo-op

Rajinikanth did not keep it polite. He called Subbulakshmi a “divine spiritual icon” and said the music Anirudh Ravichander is composing for the project reminds him of Sankarabharanam’s enduring score. For a multilingual biopic that is still awaiting production, that comparison is a headline in itself.

It also follows a pattern: Rajinikanth has often used his voice to spotlight projects that impress him, and an endorsement from him tends to move the conversation beyond the trade press.

Why the timing works for Rashmika

Rashmika is not just relying on the blessing. The Animal actor is researching Subbulakshmi’s musical legacy and has spoken with the singer’s family to understand the person behind the public reverence. Her preparation reportedly extends to the small things:

• Studying the vocalist’s gestures and mannerisms
• Understanding her gentle stage presence
• Speaking with family members for personal context

The work matters because Subbulakshmi is not an easy figure to reduce to a few iconic poses. A Bharat Ratna recipient and one of India’s most revered Carnatic vocalists, she carries a legacy that audiences protect.

What to watch next

Rajinikanth’s own Jailer 2, directed by Nelson with music by Anirudh, opened in theatres today, so his praise arrives while he is already in the spotlight. Rashmika, meanwhile, has Ranabaali releasing this week and Mysaa next month—which means the biopic’s fanbase will get a long runway of her performances before the cameras roll.

The challenge for director Gowtam Tinnanuri and the team will be matching the spiritual weight of Subbulakshmi’s music without turning her into a monument. Rajinikanth’s endorsement raises the visibility; Rashmika’s preparation will decide whether the film earns its title.

Source: Filmfare