Rashmika Mandanna is reportedly undergoing intensive Carnatic vocal training for her portrayal of legendary singer M.S. Subbulakshmi, with the makers planning to have the actress lend her own voice to the performance.
Rashmika Mandanna is taking her upcoming portrayal of Bharat Ratna M.S. Subbulakshmi seriously, with the actress reportedly undergoing intensive training in Carnatic music ahead of the film.
The role presents a significant challenge, particularly because Subbulakshmi was one of India’s most celebrated Carnatic vocalists. According to sources close to the project, the team has been working to ensure that Rashmika’s performance captures the musical authenticity required for the character.
Rashmika to Perform Her Own Vocals?
One of the key questions during the development of the project was whether Rashmika would sing the songs herself.
The filmmakers reportedly considered using archival recordings of M.S. Subbulakshmi and having Rashmika lip-sync to the legendary singer’s voice. However, the approach was eventually considered impractical for the film.
After discussions within the team, the makers have reportedly decided that Rashmika will perform the vocals herself.
That decision means her preparation for the role goes beyond acting. The actress is now training in Carnatic vocal music to develop the musical foundation needed for the portrayal.
Intensive Carnatic Training for Rashmika
Carnatic music requires specialised vocal training, and taking on a character as closely associated with the tradition as M.S. Subbulakshmi presents an additional challenge for any actor.
Rashmika’s reported preparation is therefore expected to form an important part of her transformation for the role.
Rather than simply performing to a pre-recorded track, singing herself would require the actress to combine acting, musical performance and characterisation in the same scenes.
Allu Aravind Praises Rashmika’s Casting
Producer Allu Aravind has expressed strong faith in Rashmika’s involvement with the project.
Speaking about the casting and the actress’s connection to the role, he said:
“M.S. Amma has chosen Rashmika Mandanna from Heaven and we just acted as agents! Every decision regarding the film and the actress is being taken by a power far above us.”
His remarks underline the team’s belief that Rashmika is the right choice to portray the iconic musician.
A Challenging Role for Rashmika Mandanna
Playing a celebrated real-life personality comes with expectations that go beyond physical resemblance. In Rashmika’s case, portraying M.S. Subbulakshmi also involves engaging with the musical tradition that defined much of the singer’s legacy.
The decision to have Rashmika train in Carnatic vocals suggests that the makers are looking to build the performance around more than appearance and dialogue.
If the plan remains unchanged, audiences will see Rashmika not only portraying Subbulakshmi on screen but also attempting to recreate her musical performances through her own voice.
The film could therefore mark a notably different chapter in Rashmika Mandanna’s career, placing music and performance preparation at the centre of her transformation.
