Ahead of the highly anticipated release of Pushpa 2: The Rule, Rashmika Mandanna, who plays the beloved character of Srivalli, marked an emotional milestone as she officially wrapped up her shooting schedule for the film. The actress, who has been a significant part of the Pushpa franchise from the very beginning, took to her Instagram stories to reflect on her memorable five-year journey with the team, sharing heartfelt thoughts and emotions as she said goodbye to the sets.
November 25, a day that felt both overwhelming and emotional for Rashmika, began with a busy shooting schedule. After a long day on set, she flew to Chennai for a scheduled event and returned to Hyderabad the same night. Despite only having a few hours of sleep, she headed straight back to the sets to film her final scenes for Pushpa 2. In her note, Rashmika shared how this final day marked a poignant chapter in her career, considering the time spent with the Pushpa team as one of the most formative and unforgettable experiences of her career.
“Out of the 7/8 years, the last 5 years being on this set almost made this set my home in the industry, and finally it was my last day. Of course, there's still so much work left and apparently a part 3, but it felt different... it felt overwhelming... it felt like it was ending,” Rashmika confessed. She went on to express the complex emotions she felt, revealing a sense of sadness that she could not fully understand at the time. As the last day unfolded, memories of the grueling work, the camaraderie with her team, and the emotional rollercoaster of shooting came rushing back. Even though she felt tired and exhausted, she also felt immense gratitude for having had the opportunity to be part of such a monumental project.
Rashmika’s words reflected not only her personal connection with her role and the film but also the deep bonds she had formed with the cast and crew over the years. She specifically mentioned Allu Arjun, director Sukumar, and the entire Pushpa 2 team, acknowledging how their support and understanding of her made the experience all the more enriching. The actress described how the set had transformed into a second home for her, and parting with this familiar environment was a challenging emotional moment.
“All the love and camaraderie that I have received over the years is something I will cherish forever,” she said. Her gratitude for the team was palpable, as she reflected on the intense emotional and physical toll the project had taken on all involved. She added that, even though the shooting for Pushpa 2 was concluding, it felt as though something was being left behind. The excitement for the movie’s release mixed with the melancholy of having completed this chapter in her life.
This was not the only emotional note shared by the cast. Allu Arjun, too, marked the occasion with a heartfelt post, sharing a picture from his last day of shooting. "LAST DAY LAST SHOT OF PUSHPA. 5 years JOURNEY of PUSHPA completed. What a journey," he wrote. His words summed up the immense dedication and passion that went into bringing Pushpa Raj's character to life, with the journey stretching over half a decade.
The emotional sentiment shared by both Rashmika and Allu Arjun underscores the magnitude of the Pushpa series, not just as a major film franchise but as a deeply personal and transformative journey for everyone involved. Directed by Sukumar, the movie has captured the imaginations of audiences around the world, and with Pushpa 2, the stakes have only grown higher, promising more action, drama, and compelling storylines.
The sequel continues the saga of Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun), a character who has now become a cultural icon, and his ongoing battle against the forces of power and corruption. Fahadh Faasil will also reprise his role as Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, bringing even more intensity to the narrative. With the film set for release on December 5, excitement has been building among fans who are eager to see where the story will go next.
Rashmika’s post also hinted at the possibility of a Pushpa 3, further tantalizing fans with the idea that while the second part is reaching its conclusion, the Pushpa saga might continue. Her suggestion of a third installment has sparked much speculation, with fans already theorizing about where the story could head and which new characters might be introduced.
As the Pushpa franchise continues to expand, the connections between its cast, crew, and audience have only deepened. Rashmika’s heartfelt reflection not only speaks to the emotional depth of her performance but also to the tight-knit family that the Pushpa team has become over the years. With Pushpa 2 on the horizon, fans are sure to be treated to a cinematic experience that’s not only packed with gripping action and drama but also rich with the passion and dedication that the cast has poured into it.
