Vijay steps in as fans mob him and Rashmika Mandanna on Ranabaali sets
Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna's one-month anniversary on the sets of Ranabaali turned into a fan frenzy, with crowds swarming the couple. Vijay was seen stepping in to shield Rashmika.
Vijay Deverakonda turned protective husband mode on as he and Rashmika Mandanna marked their one-month wedding anniversary amid a swarm of excited fans in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, who tried getting too close.
The newly-weds, who got married in a private ceremony in Udaipur on February 26, were back on the sets of their upcoming period drama Ranabaali on March 26, blending work with a touch of celebration.
Earlier in the day, the couple visited a local Hanuman temple to seek blessings. Videos from the visit captured Vijay holding Rashmika close and shielding her as a large crowd gathered, eager for a glimpse of the popular pair. Security personnel had their hands full managing the enthusiastic fans, while Vijay and Rashmika smiled and waved warmly.
Watch the clip here:
Dressed in a simple cream kurta, Vijay stayed vigilant, especially when the crowd closed in, ensuring Rashmika, in a stylish blue suit set, reached their vehicle safely.
Back on the Ranabaali set, the team gave them a traditional welcome with a harathi (aarti) ceremony. Women applied kumkum on their foreheads as a mark of auspiciousness. In one sweet moment caught on camera, Rashmika looked up at Vijay with a warm smile, reflecting the quiet bond they share even amidst a busy shooting schedule.
Directed by Rahul Sankrityan (known for Shyam Singha Roy), Ranabaali is a historical action-drama set between 1854 and 1878. It explores themes of resistance against colonial rule and the hardships of the Great Indian Famine.
Vijay plays the lead role of the fierce freedom fighter Ranabaali, while Rashmika portrays his wife, Jayamma. Hollywood actor Arnold Vosloo, best known for his role of the villain in The Mummy (1999), features as the antagonist in Ranabaali.
The film marks the third collaboration between Vijay and Rashmika after the hits Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade.
Produced by Mythri Movie Makers in association with T-Series, the film is currently on schedule in Anantapur and is slated for a pan-India theatrical release on September 11, 2026, in multiple languages.