Rashmika Mandanna-starrer Animal (2023) earned Rs. 917 crore (approx) worldwide to become one of the highest-grossing Hindi films. However, soon after it was released, debates started around movies promoting misogyny and glorifying toxic masculinity. But Mandanna, who played actor Ranbir Kapoor’s wife, Geetanjali, in the film, says the team was prepared for such reactions.

“We always knew that it would have mixed conversations. In fact, I am happy about it (the debate around the film), because different people have different opinions and perspectives. You can’t tell everyone to think the same way,” the actor reasons.

Despite the criticism, Animal’s impressive performance inarguably put the actor on the map. Ask if playing Geetanjali was emotionally draining for her, and the 27-year-old says, “Not at all. In fact, it was emotionally uplifting. The character had strong opinions. She was so real and true to herself. I don’t think you get to play such characters often. I was excited and grateful that Sandeep (Reddy Vanga, director) sir wrote the scenes. He visualized them and I was able to pull them off.”