In a casting coup that promises to set the Indian film industry ablaze, acclaimed actress Rashmika Mandanna is all set to reunite with “Pushpa” co-star Allu Arjun for director Atlee‘s next grand venture. If reports are to be believed, Rashmika will take on a bold and groundbreaking role as the antagonist in the untitled film, which is tentatively being referred to as AA22xA6. This marks a thrilling departure for the actress, who will be seen in her boldest avatar yet.
Rashmika Mandanna Joins Atlee-Allu Arjun Epic
Following their electric on-screen chemistry and the blockbuster success of the Pushpa franchise, Rashmika Mandanna is reportedly joining the cast of director Atlee’s ambitious project. However, this time, their dynamic will be completely different, with Rashmika reportedly playing a powerful negative character. This role is a significant departure from her beloved portrayal of Srivalli, promising to showcase a new, unexplored side of her acting prowess.
According to sources, Rashmika underwent a complete look test and body scan in Los Angeles, an essential part of the film’s elaborate pre-production planning. Director Atlee, known for his grand-scale action spectacles, is reportedly collaborating with top-tier VFX teams from the U.S. and Europe to build a futuristic world. Rashmika’s character is expected to be deeply rooted in this high-concept universe, with the body scan being a necessary step for the advanced visual effects and motion-capture sequences required for her role.
Sources suggest the actress eagerly embraced the opportunity, turning down a comparable role in another high-profile pan-Indian film. The character in Atlee’s film reportedly offers her the chance to explore uncharted territory as an actor, a challenge she is eager to embrace. She is looking to begin shooting for her part from the month of October, joining the project’s already star-studded cast.
Atlee’s AA22xA6 to be a Visual Marvel
Director Atlee, who delivered a mega-blockbuster with Jawan starring Shah Rukh Khan, is now mounting his next project on an even more ambitious scale. Currently titled AA22xA6, the film is envisioned as a grand-scale sci-fi action epic with a colossal budget, poised to make history in Indian cinema. Reports suggest the film will explore multiple universes, a narrative style reminiscent of Hollywood’s biggest sci-fi sagas.
The film’s vision is a technological marvel, with Atlee aiming to create a cinematic spectacle with a unique visual language. This meticulous approach to filmmaking is set to deliver a film that not only entertains but also sets new technical benchmarks for the industry.
Reports suggest that the film will feature a powerhouse ensemble, including top-tier talent such as Deepika Padukone, Janhvi Kapoor, and Mrunal Thakur.
Allu Arjun-Rashmika Mandanna Reunion: From Romance to Rivalry
The reunion of Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna is a key highlight of this project. Their last collaborations, Pushpa: The Rise and Pushpa 2: The Rule, established them as one of the most bankable and loved on-screen pairs in Indian cinema. Their dynamic as Pushpa and Srivalli, which was built on a mix of rugged romance and fiery chemistry, captured the hearts of audiences across the nation.
However, their collaboration in Atlee’s film promises a complete reversal of this dynamic. As an antagonist, Rashmika will likely engage in high-stakes face-offs with Allu Arjun, creating a new kind of on-screen tension. This shift from romantic lead to powerful rival is a major gamble, but one that could pay off handsomely, offering fans a fresh and thrilling experience.
With a 2027 theatrical release window, the film’s production timeline suggests a massive scale and an extensive post-production period. As Rashmika Mandanna gears up to start shooting, all eyes will be on her to see how she transforms into a powerful and daring antagonist for this highly anticipated project. The collaboration between Atlee, Allu Arjun, and Rashmika Mandanna is poised to be one of the most talked-about projects in the coming years.
