Kriti Sanon Opens Up About Working With Rashmika Mandanna For The First Time In ‘Cocktail 2’
Kriti Sanon showered praise on her ‘Cocktail 2’ co-star Rashmika Mandanna, calling her “warm” and completely free of insecurity.
The hype surrounding the highly anticipated film ‘Cocktail 2’ is reaching a fever pitch, and the off-screen camaraderie between its leading ladies is only adding fuel to the fire. Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon, who is currently gearing up for the movie's theatrical release on June 19, recently opened up about her new co-star, Rashmika Mandanna. The verdict? It’s nothing but pure love and positive vibes between the two powerhouse performers.
Speaking at the recent Femina Beauty Awards, Kriti Sanon couldn't stop gushing about her experience working alongside the ‘Pushpa’ actress. Despite this being their very first collaboration together, the two seem to have struck an instant chord on set. Kriti painted a glowing picture of her co-star, highlighting Rashmika's exceptionally welcoming nature.
“She's just a very genuine person, kind, lovely and warm,” Kriti shared at the event. Emphasising the refreshing dynamic they share, she added, “No insecurity. Just goodness, and I think I'm a vibe person. If I feel the aura and I feel positivity, I get drawn to it. I've just had so much fun with her, and she's just amazing. I love her.”
Naturally, stepping into the world of ‘Cocktail’ brings its own set of heavy expectations. The original 2012 film – starring Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Diana Penty – has cemented its status as a cult favourite over the years, beloved for its chart-topping music, memorable characters, and modern take on relationship drama. However, Kriti was quick to clear the air regarding how the new film, directed by Homi Adajania, connects to the beloved original.
Addressing the inevitable chatter, she clarified that ‘Cocktail 2’ is not a direct continuation of the 2012 storyline. “I'm sure a comparison is going to happen, but the good part is that this is not a sequel; it's a franchise,” Kriti explained. “So it's more of a vibe franchise, and the characters are separate,” she added.
The upcoming film, which also stars Shahid Kapoor – whom Kriti previously shared the screen with in ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’ – has already generated immense curiosity online. Thanks to various pictures and videos leaking from the shoot, fans are heavily speculating that the plot will revolve around an intense love triangle featuring Shahid, Kriti, and Rashmika.
This highly anticipated release comes during an incredibly eventful year for Rashmika. On the personal front, she entered a beautiful new phase of life earlier this February when she tied the knot with actor Vijay Deverakonda. While the wedding itself was an intimate, private affair attended only by close family and friends, the newlyweds later hosted a spectacular, star-studded reception in Hyderabad. Kriti was among the many film industry celebrities in attendance to celebrate the couple.
In fact, the reception even sparked a hilarious social media exchange involving their ‘Cocktail 2’ director. Homi Adajania playfully reacted to the film rumours by taking to Instagram Stories. Sharing a photo from the Hyderabad wedding reception, the director jokingly wrote, “Congrats, guys. Kriti Sanon, can you stay out of this?” Never one to miss a beat, Kriti cheekily responded, “Never… love them.”
Professionally, Rashmika is also enjoying a phenomenal run in Bollywood. She has rapidly expanded her slate with major projects like ‘Animal’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Sikandar’, and ‘Thamma’.
With a fresh “vibe franchise” approach, an intriguing rumoured love triangle, and leading ladies who clearly adore each other off-camera, ‘Cocktail 2’ is shaping up to be one of the summer’s most talked-about cinematic events.
