'None entered cinema from Coorg before me': Rashmika's statement make internet wonder!

Actor Rashmika Mandanna has once again stirred controversy with a recent remark about being the first from the Kodava (Coorg) community to enter the film industry. In an interview, Rashmika said, “I remember what was spoken at home when I received my first cheque. It wasn’t easy. I feel like no one from the Coorg community had entered the film industry before me.”

Also Read:Rakul Preet Singh to star in Ramayana part 1? Here’s the full list of actors joining the epic

Her statement has triggered widespread criticism online, with netizens accusing her of ignoring or being unaware of several prominent actors who hail from the Kodava community and have made their mark in cinema well before her.

Social media users were quick to list names of Kodava actresses such as Prema, Nidhi Subbaiah, Harshika Poonacha, Tapaswini Poonacha, and Shubra Aiyappa,  all of whom have worked in the Kannada and other Indian film industries.

While Rashmika might have meant to express her personal struggle, the sweeping nature of her comment has been perceived as dismissive of her community’s cinematic legacy. Critics argue that, as a public figure, she must be more responsible with her words , especially when discussing community representation in mainstream cinema.

Rashmika, who has often been in the news for controversial statements, has not yet responded to the backlash. However, calls for clarification and an apology are growing louder across social platforms.