Rukmini Vasant Takes Over Rashmika's National Crush Crown?

Fame in films is like a rising tide, it lifts some stars quickly while others hold their ground. Rukmini Vasant, who impressed audiences in Saptasagaradache Ello and as Kanakavathi in Kantara Chapter 1, is riding that wave. With the mythological fantasy film collecting over ₹500 crores in just a week, her name is being spoken across India in all the languages she is trending now. Fans and critics alike are praising her performance, visuals, and screen presence, marking her rise as a pan-Indian favorite.

Rashmika Mandanna has long been the National Crush, but social media now suggests Rukmini is stepping into that spotlight. Fans are calling her Karnataka Crush, Kannada Crush, and even International Crush. The timing is notable, while Rashmika faced some recent criticism in Karnataka, Rukmini is gaining massive attention with Kantara 2. Conversations online are buzzing with comparisons, and speculation about a shift in fandom is everywhere with their reasoning.

Rukmini’s growing fame after Kantara 2 and Rashmika’s steady success have sparked a heated National Crush debate, with fans watching closely to see who takes the crown next.

While both actresses have several films lined up, Rashmika is set to impress in the horror comedy Thama alongside Ayushmann Khurrana on October 21, followed by The Girlfriend and Cocktail 2. Meanwhile, Rukmini Vasanth has two major projects—Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups with KGF fame hero and Dragon with Jr. NTR and Prashanth Neel. The National Crush race is heating up, and their upcoming hits will decide who takes the lead.