Rashmika’s ‘first Coorg actress’ comment backfires, critics recall regional icons who led before

Rashmika Mandanna is facing sharp criticism after her recent comment claiming she is the first actress from Coorg to enter the film industry. The Pushpa actress made the statement during an interview with Mojo Story, where she reflected on her early career struggles.

Rashmika said, “Conversations back home when I got my first paycheck weren’t easy. Because, you know, in the Coorg community, nobody has ever entered the film industry. I think I am the first one in our whole community to have entered the industry. People were extremely judgy.” Though the remark seemed to be a personal reflection, it didn’t take long for the internet to respond. Many users pointed out that several actresses from the Kodava community had already made their mark in cinema, well before Rashmika’s debut.

Veteran Kannada actress Neravanda Prema, known for her successful career across languages, was among the first to be mentioned. In response to the controversy, Prema told a media outlet, “What is there for me to say? The Kodava community knows the truth. You should ask her (Rashmika) about her version of the statement. What can I say about it?” She further clarified, “Before me, there was an actor, Shashikala from Coorg, who played supporting roles. Then I entered the film industry, and later many Kodavas have done well.”

Social media users also chimed in, listing names of other actresses from the region. One user wrote, “She is wrong. Even before her there was an actress named Prema. She acted is a superstar in Kannada movies.” Another commented, “You weren’t even born when Prema ruled the Kannada industry. Have you heard of #DaisyOonnanna, #ShwethaChengappa, #NidhiSubbaiah?” Some users also criticised Rashmika for seemingly ignoring the contributions of other Kodava women in cinema, saying she lacked awareness of her own community’s achievements.

As of now, Rashmika Mandanna has not issued a clarification or response to the backlash. The comment continues to stir debate, especially among the Kodava community and Kannada film fans.