Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of love interests to alpha male characters – Ranvijay (Animal, played by Ranbir Kapoor) and Pushpa Raj (Pushpa: The Rise and Pushpa: The Rule, played by Allu Arjun) – has sparked debates about her acceptance of roles that showcase toxic masculinity. She defended the depiction of toxic masculinity in her films, stating that characters like Pushpa Raj reflect individual traits and personalities, adding, “People like this exist as well.”