The National Crush is taking on a role of a lifetime. Rashmika Mandanna is set to portray the legendary Carnatic vocalist MS Subbulakshmi in an upcoming biopic that was officially launched in Chennai on September 16. The launch ceremony was a star-studded affair, held on the icon’s 110th birth anniversary, with none other than veteran actor Kamal Haasan giving the first clap to kick off the production. The film is helmed by director Gowtam Tinnanuri, with musical genius Anirudh Ravichander on board to compose the score. This ambitious project is backed by a powerhouse production team featuring Allu Aravind, Bunny Vasu, and Rockline Venkatesh.
Rashmika took to social media to share her excitement, calling the opportunity a significant honour. Sharing a heartfelt post, she wrote, “Some legends live beyond time. Some melodies live beyond generations. And some stories wait for the right moment to be told. Today, that journey begins and what an absolute honour it is.” Fans are already buzzing with anticipation, as the official first look and the film’s title are scheduled to be unveiled today at 5:15 pm.
MS Subbulakshmi, affectionately known as “MS Amma,” remains one of India’s most revered cultural icons. Her list of accolades is as legendary as her voice; she was the first musician to be awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1998 and the first Indian to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1974. Beyond her domestic success, she made history on the global stage, notably performing at the United Nations General Assembly in 1966. While celebrated for her devotional recordings like the Venkateswara Suprabhatam and Vishnu Sahasranamam, she also left a mark on the silver screen with her lead role in the 1945 bilingual film Meera. With such a rich legacy to honor, all eyes are now on Rashmika to see how she brings this musical icon to life on the big screen.