Devi Sri Prasad says Rashmika ‘deserves national award’

Music composer Devi Sri Prasad, popularly known as DSP, has heaped high praise on actor Rashmika Mandanna for her performance in The Girlfriend. The composer, who has worked on blockbuster albums like Pushpa 2: The Rule, Thandel and Kuberaa, said that Rashmika “deserves a national award” for her portrayal in the film.

Taking to social media, DSP shared a poster of the movie and wrote, “#TheGirlfriend — A movie that I clapped for wholeheartedly in recent times! Woww! Rashmikaa… You are not just a ‘national crush’ — you deserve a ‘national award’ for The Girlfriend.”

Continuing his admiration, DSP applauded Rashmika’s ability to portray innocence with authenticity. “After enchanting us with such versatile performances in films like Pushpa, Animal, Chaava and Kubera, how could you bring back that innocence in your face so effortlessly and so believably! I know how… because you just lived it. The depth in each expression is mind-blowing,” he wrote.

Devi Sri Prasad also praised the film’s director Rahul Ravindran for handling a sensitive subject beautifully. He said, “Every girl and every guy must watch this movie! Rahul sir, how could you even handle such a sensitive film in such a brilliant way! Kudos to you and the producers for giving us this beautiful emotion!”

He further appreciated actor Dheekshith Shetty, who plays the male lead, for his powerful performance, as well as Anu Emmanuel for her “subtle maturity” in the film. DSP also mentioned the work of Hesham Abdul Wahab (music), Krishnakanth Vasant (cinematography), and Chota K Prasad (editing), calling their work “beautiful and impactful.”

Directed by Rahul Ravindran, The Girlfriend stars Rashmika Mandanna as Bhooma Devi and Dheekshith Shetty in the lead roles. The Telugu romantic drama explores the evolution of a seemingly fairy-tale romance that turns toxic due to the aggressive nature of the male protagonist. The film also features Anu Emmanuel, Rao Ramesh, and Rohini in key roles.

Rashmika’s portrayal of Bhooma Devi has been widely acclaimed, with audiences and critics alike praising her emotional depth and range. Devi Sri Prasad’s glowing endorsement adds to the film’s growing recognition, positioning Rashmika as one of the most powerful performers of her generation.