In a recent interview, Rashmika Mandanna reflected on her experience with the film Sikandar, hinting that the final product differed significantly from the original narration. Sikandar, which was released in theaters on March 30 of last year, stars Mandanna alongside Salman Khan and is directed by A.R. Murugadoss.
Mandanna, in conversation with Telugu journalist Prema, suggested the script evolved considerably during filming. "Sikandar, I remember talking to Murugadoss sir, of course later what happened was very different… But when I heard the script, it was indeed quite a different script," she stated. She explained that such changes are common in filmmaking, influenced by factors like performances, editing, and release timing. "Generally that happens with films. When you listen to something it is one story that you have listened to… but over the making of the film, things change according to the performances, according to the edits, according to the time of the release. Things change and that is very common. So that happened with Sikandar," Mandanna said.
The film Sikandar is an original story, with producer Sajid Nadiadwala and director A.R. Murugadoss aiming to offer a fresh narrative. According to reports prior to the film's release, every scene was designed and executed with authenticity to ensure a novel viewing experience. Santosh Narayanan's background score was also intended to contribute to the film's distinctiveness, adding emotional depth to the visuals.
However, the film has faced criticism since its release. Some social media users have pointed out a perceived lack of chemistry between Mandanna and Khan, while others have speculated about how a more substantial role for Mandanna might have altered the film's dynamic. Some viewers have expressed that "nothing could have saved this disaster," criticizing Salman Khan's performance and the on-screen pairing.
Prior to the film's release, Mandanna had cautioned her fans not to expect a performance-oriented role from her in Sikandar, describing it as her "first commercial Bollywood" film. She said that she wanted to showcase her versatility and demonstrate her ability to be part of commercial films where she doesn't have to "perform" as much. Addressing her fans, Mandanna stated, “Guys, I am telling you this is a full-fledged Bollywood heroine type...You have to be okay with it, because you have seen me perform and perform. Watch this as a light, easy entertainment".
Some critics have noted a pattern in Mandanna's recent roles, suggesting she is being typecast as a submissive wife. Sikandar, where she plays a queen, has been cited as an example of this, with the character described as graceful and glamorous but ultimately embodying coyness and submissiveness. This follows similar roles in other films, leading to concerns that Mandanna's talent is not being fully utilized in her Hindi film projects.
