as Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon And Rashmika MandannaWith ‘Cocktail 2’ opening in theaters today, the conversation around the film has expanded beyond its music and storyline. One aspect that has created curiosity among fans is the dynamic between the two leading ladies of the film. While the industry has often been associated with stories of competition between actresses, Rashmika Mandana says her experience with Kriti Sanon was just the opposite.
Rashmika Mandana is more about friendship than rivalry
The actress rejected the long-held belief that female co-stars can’t be friends and revealed that filming for ‘Cocktail 2’ helped her develop a real bond with Kriti. According to Rashmika, the bond they developed during the shoot became one of the most memorable parts of the project.Speaking to Variety India, the actress shared, “Honestly, I think that myth is very old and it’s time we throw it completely out the window. Working with Kritzoo was absolutely special, and if anything, this film has given me more friends than anything else.”Rashmika explained that the atmosphere on the sets was full of enthusiasm rather than competition. She believes that successful women support each other creating a much healthier and more productive work environment.
The bond that developed between Rashmika Mandanna and Kriti Sanon on the sets
Sharing details about their off-camera equation, Rashmika said that she and Kriti spent most of their downtime together between scenes. From sharing meals to celebrating each other’s performances, the actresses developed a rapport that naturally reflected in their work.“We were constantly cheering each other on, sharing food and laughing between shots. I truly believe there is enough room under the sun for all of us to shine. When women support women, the power of the set becomes magical.”The actress added that the audience will get to experience that authenticity when they watch the film on the big screen. For him, real friendship often brings an extra layer of comfort and honesty to the performance. “I think the genuine warmth and brotherhood will be reflected beautifully on screen for everyone to see.”
Rashmika Mandanna is working in ‘Cocktail 2’
Apart from the friendships she gained while making ‘Cocktail 2’, Rashmika believes that the film also gave her an opportunity to move away from the type of character that audiences have been associated with recently. After acting in films like ‘Pushp’, ‘Animal’, ‘Chaava’ and ‘The Girlfriend’, he was keen to explore something that felt contemporary and urban.“This is definitely the most urban role I’ve played, and it really feels incredibly refreshing. I’ve been very fortunate to play deeply rooted, rustic or intensely emotional characters in my recent films. But as an actor, the last thing I want is to become too comfortable or a certain image.”He also mentioned that every aspect of the role felt new and exciting. “When this project came my way, the vibe, the styling, the edgy body language, everything was a complete 180 from what people are used to seeing me do. It felt like the perfect opportunity to spread my wings and try a completely different flavor.”
Why light-hearted films are important for Rashmika Mandanna
While Rashmika has won accolades for emotionally intense performances, she admits that projects like ‘Cocktail 2’ offer a different kind of satisfaction. The actress says light entertainment brings positive energy to the workplace and allows the actors to enjoy the process while creating something fun for the audience.“I really can’t choose between the two because they feed completely different parts of my soul as an actor. Light projects like ‘Cocktail 2’ are very therapeutic. You go to work, work hard, you laugh, you let off the incredible energy of your co-stars, and the ultimate goal is to bring a smile to the audience’s face.”At the same time, he acknowledges the thrill that comes with more demanding roles and believes that a healthy balance between commercial entertainment and emotional drama is essential for an actor’s growth.“On the other hand, doing intense dramatic or emotionally heavy films is deeply fulfilling in a completely different way. It pushes you to your absolute limits, forces you to dig out raw, vulnerable emotions and tests your mettle. It’s tiring, but there’s a unique thrill in dramatic scenes that belie a wholesome scene. An actor thrives.”managed by Homi Adajania‘Cocktail 2’ stars Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna in lead roles and releases in theaters on June 19.
