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Tag: Rashmika Mandanna

  • Chhaava conquers TV with 39.2m viewers after Rs 800 crore box office run

    Chhaava conquers TV with 39.2m viewers after Rs 800 crore box office run

    MUMBAI: From storming cinemas to ruling living rooms, Chhaava has proved unstoppable. After notching up a staggering Rs 800 crore at the box office, Vicky Kaushal’s historical epic has broken fresh ground on television, with its World TV Premiere on Star Gold on 17 August pulling in a massive 39.2 million viewers across India the biggest non-franchise TV debut of 2025.

    Timed around Independence Day, the event was more than just a premiere, it was a cultural celebration. For the first time, Chhaava was simulcast in both Hindi and Marathi, bringing the saga of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to audiences in the language of its land. Star Gold doubled down on the spectacle with a special roundtable featuring Vicky Kaushal, Divya Dutta, Vineet Kumar Singh and director Laxman Utekar, along with deleted scenes that gave fans extra reasons to cheer.

    The cast and creators couldn’t hide their excitement at the film’s record-breaking second act. “I’m overwhelmed by the love Chhaava continues to receive,” said Vicky Kaushal, calling it “truly special” that the story reached every home. Director Laxman Utekar hailed the response as proof that “audiences are eager for powerful, rooted stories,” while producer Dinesh Vijan credited the Maddock–Star Gold partnership for helping the epic connect with millions more.

    The emotional high was shared across the board. “This record-breaking premiere proves that hard work and a compelling story will always find its audience,” said Vineet Kumar Singh, while Divya Dutta called the film’s reception “a testament to the power of a good story.” With Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, and a stellar ensemble rounding out the cast, Chhaava has cemented its status as one of 2025’s defining blockbusters, a spectacle that’s as at home on TV screens as it was in theatres.

  • Birla Opus paints a bold stroke with free repainting ‘Assurance’ plan

    Birla Opus paints a bold stroke with free repainting ‘Assurance’ plan

    MUMBAI: Looks like Birla Opus is ready to brush away all consumer doubts quite literally. Birla Opus Paints, part of Aditya Birla Group’s Grasim Industries, has unveiled its new ‘Birla Opus Assurance’ campaign, a first-of-its-kind pledge in the Indian paint industry that promises to repaint homes free of charge if customers aren’t satisfied within a year.

    The one-year repainting warranty covers all four seasons, putting walls through the ultimate weather test. This goes above and beyond the standard product warranty, signalling Birla Opus Paints’ confidence in its advanced formulations and service quality.

    Fronting the colourful campaign are brand ambassadors Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, who don quirky avatars across multiple ad films. Adding extra sparkle to the ensemble are Ranveer Shorey, Murali Sharma, Seema Pahwa and Jaaved Jaaferi, each bringing humour and relatability to the brand’s promise. The ads cheekily thank the design and construction community contractors, architects, and dealers whose word-of-mouth recommendations continue to fuel Birla Opus’ growing popularity in the decorative paints market.

    Birla Opus Paints CEO Rakshit Hargave said the campaign reflects the brand’s “deep-rooted belief in the exceptional quality and performance of our products”, while Marketing Head Inderpreet Singh called it “a bold statement of confidence” that balances reassurance with humour.

    On the creative front, Leo Burnett South Asia’s CCO Sachin Kamble revealed that the films tap into the Indian psyche of “value, trust, and quality service”, with humour used to tackle everyday consumer concerns about durability and finish.

    The ‘Birla Opus Assurance’ campaign will run across Hindi and regional languages, backed by a 360° push spanning TV, digital, and print. With India’s decorative paint sector seeing fierce competition, Birla Opus has taken a bold stroke, one that promises to keep consumers covered, rain or shine.

  • Laxmipati Sarees onboards Rashmika Mandanna as their brand ambassador

    Laxmipati Sarees onboards Rashmika Mandanna as their brand ambassador

    MUMBAI: Laxmipati Sarees has announced its association with one of the biggest stars of Indian cinema—Rashmika Mandanna – as the face of the brand. Known for her pan-India appeal and magnetic screen presence, Rashmika brings fresh energy to a brand cherished across generations for its unmatched print quality and super-fine lightweight fabric.

    This iconic partnership launches with a nationwide campaign across TV, digital, print, and outdoor platforms starting July 29, 2025, celebrating the effortless elegance and cultural pride that Laxmipati Sarees represents. The campaign will also run ads on the India’s most iconic show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which starts tonight, aiming to capture the target audience on both TV as well as digital (JioHotstar) mediums.

    Expressing her joy, Rashmika Mandanna said, “Sarees carry so much more than just fabric — they hold our stories, tradition, and timeless beauty. Each one reflects a rich cultural legacy, and Laxmipati makes them so easy to wear — light, vibrant, and full of elegance. I’m so happy to be associated with a brand that brings heritage to life with such effortless style”

    Laxmipati Sarees managing director Sanjay Sarawagi said, “For four decades, Laxmipati Sarees has stood for trust, quality, and elegance. Our vision has always been to create sarees that combine heritage with everyday elegance. With Rashmika joining our journey, we are reaffirming our commitment to stay rooted in Indian tradition while connecting deeply with today’s woman. Her grace and authenticity reflect everything our brand aspires to be.”

    Laxmipati Sarees director Manoj Sarawgi added, “This is a proud moment for us. Rashmika brings not just star power, but a natural warmth and relatability that our customers love. Her presence will help us reach new audiences while staying true to our core—creating sarees that are light, beautiful, and truly made for every Indian woman.”

    “Rashmika brings an incredible blend of relatability and glamour, which aligns perfectly with Laxmipati’s appeal. Through this campaign, we’re not just showcasing sarees—we’re narrating the story of the modern Indian woman who embraces tradition with confidence and joy,” added director Rakesh Sarawagi.

    Shreyansh Innovations founder Shreyansh Baid commented on the campaign, “This was a special campaign to craft. Laxmipati’s sarees are known for their lightness, fine fabric, and beautiful designs—we wanted to highlight that sensory elegance in every visual. Rashmika’s presence adds a celebratory warmth to the narrative, making the campaign aspirational and authentic at the same time.”

     

  • Rashmika Mandanna named brand ambassador for Isopure in India

    Rashmika Mandanna named brand ambassador for Isopure in India

    MUMBAI: She’s got the moves and now the macros to match. Rashmika Mandanna has been unveiled as Isopure’s first-ever brand ambassador in India, bringing star power to the brand’s stripped-down, zero-fluff approach to fitness. The global Zero/Low-Carb protein supplement brand has launched its new campaign, “Everything You Need, Nothing You Don’t,” putting the spotlight on clean-label nutrition and mindful wellness. And with 25g of protein per serving, zero carbs, zero sugar, zero fat, and no artificial additives, Isopure’s unflavoured whey isolate is walking the talk.

    Loved for her vibrant energy and grounded approach, Rashmika isn’t just the face of the campaign, she’s the poster girl for clean choices. “Fitness, to me, is not about extremes, it’s about consistency,” she said. “Isopure fits effortlessly into my life, no gimmicks, no excess.”

    Glanbia Performance Nutrition, general manager, south Asia Sumit Mathur said Rashmika embodies Isopure’s ethos of purity, simplicity, and quality. “She’s focused, mindful, and uncompromising just like an Isopure consumer,” he added.

    To drive home its point, Ispore is rolling out the ‘Purity Challenge’, featuring two demo tests ISOFOAM and ISOMIX designed to highlight the product’s superior formulation and unmatched solubility.

    The association aims to connect with a new generation of conscious consumers who are done with overhyped nutrition and ready to embrace ingredient integrity. As Rashmika puts it, “Wellness isn’t about excess, it’s about clarity.”

    With this campaign, Isopure is challenging Indian consumers to read the label, trust the science, and choose quality over clutter, one scoop at a time.

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  • IMDb drops its 2025 mid-year movie chartbusters

    IMDb drops its 2025 mid-year movie chartbusters

    MUMBAI: IMDb has rolled out its mid-year honour roll of Indian cinema, and the results are a spicy mix of box-office bangers, buzzy reunions, and high-octane sequels. Topping the Most Popular Indian Movies of 2025 So Far is ‘Chhaava’, directed by Laxman Utekar, with Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna winning over audiences and racking up serious page views from IMDb’s 250 million monthly global users.

    On the flip side of the calendar, it’s Rajinikanth who’s still ruling hearts and headlines, as ‘Coolie’, helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and reuniting the superstar with Sathyaraj after nearly four decades, tops IMDb’s Most Anticipated Indian Movies (July–December 2025) list.

    “We’re honored that Chhaava has topped the IMDb Most Popular Indian Movies of 2025 So Far list,” said Chhaava director Laxman Utekar. “What makes this recognition truly special is that it comes directly from the fans. Their overwhelming love and positive reception for this Maddock film and performances, led by Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna, have been incredibly heartening. This inspires our entire cast and crew to continue creating stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.”

    “This recognition from IMDb reflects the incredible excitement our fans have shown worldwide,” said Coolie director Lokesh Kanagaraj. “The reunion of legends Rajinikanth and Sathyaraj after 38 years has created magic on screen, and we hope what we’ve created will resonate with audiences and match their expectations.”

    IMDb’s most popular Indian movies of 2025 (so far):

    1.   Chhaava

    2.   Dragon

    3.   Deva

    4.   Raid 2

    5.   Retro

    6.   The Diplomat

    7.   L2: Empuraan

    8.   Sitaare Zameen Par

    9.   Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh

    10.   VidaaMuyarchi

    Most anticipated Indian movies (July–December 2025):

    1.   Coolie

    2.   War 2

    3.   The Raja Saab

    4.   Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan

    5.   Saiyaara

    6.   Baaghi 4

    7.   Son of Sardaar 2

    8.   Hridayapoorvam

    9.   Mahavatar Narsimha

    10.   Alpha

    A notable crossover emerges as Mohanlal, Ajay Devgn, and Pooja Hegde each feature in films listed in both charts – doubling their screen mileage and their fanbase buzz.

    While Hindi films dominate both rankings, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam cinema flex their star power too with ‘Mahavatar Narsimha’ expected to release in five languages, proving that pan-Indian storytelling is no longer just a buzzword, but a blockbuster reality.

    IMDb’s rankings are based on actual page views of movies with at least a 6.0 rating and 10,000 votes, solidifying the platform’s role as a fan-driven pulse-check on global cinema appetite.

    To view the full list, watch trailers, or add these titles to your watchlist, head to IMDb.com — because, clearly, everyone’s watching.

    (If you are an Anime fan and love Anime like Demon Slayer, Spy X Family, Hunter X Hunter, Tokyo Revengers, Dan Da Dan and Slime, Buy your favourite Anime merchandise on AnimeOriginals.com.)

  • Comscore report: Influencers now spark 36 per cent of global social media engagement — and India’s creator economy is on fire

    Comscore report: Influencers now spark 36 per cent of global social media engagement — and India’s creator economy is on fire

    MUMBAI: Move over, legacy media. In today’s scroll-happy world, social influencers are the new empire builders — and India is leading the charge. According to The Social Influencers  Report: India Edition 2025 by Comscore, content creators are now responsible for a staggering 36 per cent of all user engagement across Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok worldwide.

    And in a market where 1.4 billion people live online-first lives, the stakes — and returns — are massive. Whether it’s a viral reel from a beauty guru, a fiery political post, or a behind-the-scenes cricketer vlog, influencers are driving India’s digital heartbeat — and shaping brand strategy, platform growth, and content monetisation at scale.

    India’s top influencers? They are politicians and cricketers — with engagement numbers that rival primetime TV.  The data reveals some headline-stealing names. Prime minister Narendra Modi continues to dominate social media, generating 5.4 million monthly actions on Facebook and a further 10.8 million on X — more than many entertainment networks combined.

    Meanwhile, stars like KL Rahul, Rashmika Mandanna, and Hardik Pandya are keeping fans hooked across Instagram and YouTube. Beauty creator Parul Garg smashed viewership charts with 441.2 million views, proving that makeup and relatability are a power combo.

    Forget followers — engagement is the only currency that counts.  The report makes one thing clear: follower counts are yesterday’s news.

    “That influencer with 500K followers might be getting ghosted by their own audience,” says Comscore. “It’s engagement — likes, comments, shares — that reflects real influence.”

    The advice to brands? Dump the vanity metrics. Invest in creators who spark emotional responses, drive interactions, and know how to move the needle.

    Timing is everything: the best posting windows for Indian influencers to help you to ride the engagement wave. Know when your audience is listening. The report maps out the sweet spots across platforms:

    * Instagram: Mon–Wed mornings (10–11 am) and daily evenings (4–7 pm)
    * Facebook: Late mornings and afternoons, especially early in the week
    * X (formerly Twitter): 8–9 am daily and post-9 pm Mon–Tues
    Fridays and Saturdays? Surprisingly flat. Sunday evenings, on the other hand, are primed for attention.

    Virtual influencers are here — and they’re outperforming humans. The AI influencers are no longer gimmicks — they’re headline acts. Digital avatars like Lil Miquela, Aitana López, and Brazil’s Lu do Magalu are rewriting the rules of influence. These virtual personalities:don’t age, cancel, or misbehave; post consistently across markets and  adapt voice, tone, and look for hyper-local relevance.

    They’ve fronted campaigns with brands from Calvin Klein to LiquidIV, clocking millions of views without ever stepping into a makeup chair or selfie booth.

    Bonus: no diva demands, PR disasters, or DM leaks.

    The biggest takeaway? If you’re still treating influencer marketing like a side hustle, you’ve already lost.

    “Creators aren’t just content providers,” says the report. “They’re media buyers, storytellers, and brand equity multipliers rolled into one.”

    Brands must integrate influencer strategy across all touchpoints — from digital to social to streaming — or risk being drowned out by competitors who do.

    Final word: in the creator economy, fast movers win — the rest scroll behind. The competition is brutal. The smartest brands are already locking in creators with proven audience trust, emotional resonance, and multichannel command. And if you’re still running single-platform strategies in 2025? “You’re flying blind,” warns Comscore. “Your audience is watching TikToks, scrolling Insta, and doomscrolling X — often in the same hour. Get the full footprint or get forgotten.”

  • Star-studded and purple-perfect, Zee Cine Awards rolls out fanfare first

    Star-studded and purple-perfect, Zee Cine Awards rolls out fanfare first

    MUMBAI: It wasn’t just the stars who shone this time, the fans had the final curtain call. The 23rd Zee Cine Awards 2025, presented by Maruti Suzuki, turned Mumbai’s NSCI Dome into a pulsating celebration of Indian cinema, where fandom met flair and the purple carpet shimmered with both glamour and gratitude.

    This wasn’t your usual awards night. It was fantertainment, as Zee dubbed it, a grand ode not only to the cinematic hits of the past year but to the people who made them resonate: the audience. With a stage set for celebration, the night transformed into a carnival of charisma, dance, drama and dazzling recognition.

    The purple carpet looked straight out of a Bollywood dream. Kartik Aaryan oozed old-school charm in an all-grey ensemble, while Ananya Panday stunned in a crisp white saree. Rashmika Mandanna and Tamannaah Bhatia set the black-dress bar high, joined by head-turners like Sharvari, Jacqueline Fernandez, Vaani Kapoor, and Shanaya Kapoor. From Tiger Shroff’s street-smart swag to Bobby Deol’s white-suited flair, the fashion parade was nothing short of fabulous.

    And when the lights dimmed, the drama dialled up. Kartik kicked off the performances with Bhool Bhulaiyaa energy, while Ananya, Tamannaah, and Tiger kept the heat alive with high-octane dance numbers. Sharvari, Rasha Thadani, Jacqueline, and Vaani followed suit, bringing a fresh mix of grace and groove. The lively trio of Vikrant Massey, Aparshakti Khurana, and Ravi Kishan took hosting duties to entertaining new highs with sharp humour and seamless banter.

    But the night wasn’t just about razzle-dazzle. It was about recognition with heart, honouring not just the big names but also the behind-the-scenes powerhouses: directors, technicians, debutantes, and everyone who made magic on screen in 2024. And for the first time, the event truly acknowledged the power of the public those who clap, stream, binge, rewatch, and believe in cinema.

    The 23rd edition also delivered poignant moments: fan tributes, heartfelt speeches, and curtain calls that brought cinema’s emotional pulse to the forefront. In a world obsessed with box office numbers, this night was a reminder that cinema is, at its core, about connection.

    So if you missed the magic, don’t worry Zee Cinema, Zee Tv and Zee5 are where the show goes on. Because when cinema’s brightest gather and fans take the spotlight, it’s not just an awards show, it’s a love letter to the stories that bring us together.

  • Pushpa takes over prime time as Zee Cinema readies for a wild premiere

    Pushpa takes over prime time as Zee Cinema readies for a wild premiere

    MUMBAI: Get your popcorn ready and your seetis sharpened Pushpa is about to rule your TV screen! Zee Cinema has locked in 31 May 2025 at 7:30pm for the World Television Premiere of Pushpa 2: The Rule, and let’s just say this one’s not arriving quietly. It’s stomping in, red sand and all.

    After setting the box office ablaze and spawning more viral trends than you can count on your fingers (and toes), Allu Arjun’s swaggering return as Pushpa Raj is ready to take over Indian living rooms. Directed by Sukumar, the mega blockbuster also stars Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil and Jagapathi Babu, serving up a storm of action, drama, music and chest-thumping dialogue that promises to echo through every household.

    More than a film, Pushpa 2 is pure pop-culture combustion. From the moment Arjun’s Pushpa growled “Fire nahi, wildfire hai”, the film became a movement. It tore through the North-South divide with ease and established Pushpa not just as a character, but as a full-blown phenomenon.

    And now, the man who bows to no one is bringing his unrelenting Rule to TV. Expect explosive confrontations, especially the highly anticipated face-off with Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, played with icy menace by Fahadh Faasil. Add in foot-tapping bangers like Angaaron, Pushpa Pushpa and Peelings, and you’ve got a family entertainer that’s anything but tame.

    So if you missed the theatre frenzy or simply want another taste of that red-hot rage, mark the date: 31 May, 7:30pm, Zee Cinema. This isn’t just a premiere, this is Pushpa, and he’s about to turn your screen into his jungle.

  • Croc star! Rashmika Mandanna steps in as Crocs’ new global face from India

    Croc star! Rashmika Mandanna steps in as Crocs’ new global face from India

    MUMBAI: Rashmika Mandanna’s latest role is far from scripted, it’s unscripted, unfiltered, and all about sole. The beloved Indian actor and youth icon has been unveiled as Crocs’ newest global ambassador from India, fronting the brand’s vibrant new campaign “Your Crocs. Your Story. Your World,”  and it’s as playful as it is personal.

    With her radiant charm and relatable personality, Rashmika now becomes the face of Crocs’ campaign in India, marking a key moment for the footwear brand as it deepens its cultural resonance across the subcontinent. And it’s not just about shoes, it’s about storytelling from the feet up.

    Through a blend of CGI, whimsical world-building, and animated Jibbitz charms, the campaign film transforms Rashmika’s everyday into surreal storyscapes from red carpets to quiet corners of her home. Each charm becomes a portal to her passions, quirks, and moods, bringing the brand’s vision of personal style as self-expression alive in true Crocs fashion.

    As the face of the Indian edition of the global ‘Your Crocs, Your Story, Your World’ campaign, Rashmika embodies the spirit of personal storytelling through style. The campaign spotlights Crocs not just as footwear, but as a canvas for self-expression, where individuality comes to life with every step. Through playful and customizable Jibbitz charms, consumers are encouraged to create looks that are uniquely their own, turning everyday fashion into a reflection of personal stories, moods, and moments, and making every pair of Crocs a one-of-a-kind statement.

    “Crocs has always been a brand I’ve felt connected to. I love the fun colors, quirky silhouettes, and the unapologetic individuality they stand for.” said Rashmika Mandanna. “If you know me, you know I never shy away from expressing myself. Whether it’s my love for K-pop, Korean snacks, or sunflowers I wear my heart on my sleeve. With Crocs and Jibbitz, I get to bring that side of me to life and create something that’s completely my own. I’m so excited for my fans across India to experience the ‘Your Crocs. Your Story. Your World.’ campaign and discover how they can express their own unique style with Crocs.”

    Crocs head of international marketing Yann Le Bozec shared, “Rashmika embodies everything Crocs stands for authenticity, confidence, and personal expression. Her incredible reach across India, especially among young audiences, makes her the perfect ambassador to amplify our connection with the local consumer. With Rashmika leading our campaign, we’re excited to inspire a new generation to celebrate their individuality with Crocs.”

    Sharing his thoughts Kulfi Collective, CCO & co-founder Akshat Gupt said, “Crocs has always been about self-expression. Through this campaign, we wanted to elevate Jibbitz as a storytelling device, one that visually captures how our experiences shape us. It’s about owning your world, your way, and Rashmika brings this to life beautifully.”

    This 360-degree campaign will span digital platforms, retail stores, and social media, inviting audiences to step into their own world with a pair of customisable Crocs. From Delhi to Dindigul, this isn’t just a brand drop, it’s a personal style revolution with foam and flair.

    Because sometimes, making a fashion statement means starting from the ground up charm by quirky charm.
     

  • Midea turns up the heat with Rashmika Mandanna as cool new ambassador

    Midea turns up the heat with Rashmika Mandanna as cool new ambassador

    MUMBAI: Carrier Midea India has recruited south Indian and Hindi cinema darling Rashmika Mandanna to add some star power to its air conditioning lineup, as the company looks to fan the flames of desire for its cooling solutions across the sweltering subcontinent.

    The partnership arrives as India’s air conditioning market is heating up, with rising urbanisation, swelling disposable incomes and increasing temperatures creating perfect storm conditions for manufacturers. Industry projections suggest the sector will enjoy robust growth over the next five years, with companies jostling for position in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

    “The Indian air conditioning industry is evolving rapidly, and consumers are seeking brands that offer not only superior products but also an emotional connection,” said  Carrier Midea India chairman and managing director Sanjay Mahajan. “Rashmika Mandanna’s association with Midea air conditioners will amplify our presence and strengthen our commitment to providing smart, sustainable, and high-performance air conditioning solutions.”

    Mandanna, who has captured hearts across multiple film industries and boasts a formidable social media following, will headline the Yeh Air Conditioner Nahin, AI Conditioner Hai campaign. The multimedia blitz will span television, digital platforms and retail touchpoints, with the actress’s wide appeal expected to help Midea penetrate deeper into both metropolitan and regional markets.

    “I am happy to partner with Midea air conditioners, a brand that truly understands the importance of smart and efficient cooling in today’s homes,” smiled  Mandanna, whose charm and relatability align neatly with Midea’s brand values of innovation and modern living.

    The marketing strategy extends beyond traditional advertising into the realms of social media activations, influencer collaborations and interactive content. Midea will also deploy retail demo zones at electronics stores, offering customers hands-on experience with its cutting-edge cooling technology.

    Carrier Midea India national sales & marketing head Depender Redhu said: “This partnership comes at a pivotal time when we are expanding our distribution network and strengthening our consumer outreach. Rashmika Mandanna’s endorsement will boost brand preference and credibility, helping us reach all of India this year.”

    Added head of marketing Alok Kohli:“Today’s consumers engage with brands beyond traditional advertising, and we are committed to meeting them where they are. Alongside TV and digital campaigns, we will leverage social media activations, influencer collaborations, and interactive content to create a deeper connection with our audience. Our campaign will build a more immersive brand experience. We expect to see a significant increase in brand engagement as a result of this association.”

    As temperatures soar across the subcontinent, Midea’s strategic play may well prove prescient. With Mandanna’s star appeal and a comprehensive marketing approach, the brand hopes not just to survive but thrive in the Indian summer’s brutal heat—providing cool comfort to sweltering consumers while turning up  its market share in the process.