Hyderabad, May 17, 2025 — South Indian heartthrob Vijay Deverakonda, known for his magnetic on-screen presence and eclectic film choices, is once again making headlines—this time for his much-anticipated project “Kingdom” and his candid revelations about co-stars, directors, and personal philosophies on cinema.
The actor, who rose to national fame with films like Arjun Reddy and Dear Comrade, recently sat down for an exclusive interview where he discussed the emotional depth of “Kingdom”, the creative minds he admires, and his enduring bond with co-star Rashmika Mandanna.
The Making of ‘Kingdom’: A New Chapter in Indian Cinema
Set against a grand historical backdrop, Kingdom is poised to be one of the most ambitious Telugu-language films in recent memory. Vijay described the project as “a cinematic challenge that pushed every artistic boundary.” Directed by noted filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Kingdom is a period-action drama rich with political intrigue and royal drama.
“I was drawn to Kingdom because it’s more than just a story—it’s a movement,” Deverakonda shared. “It’s about legacy, conflict, and self-discovery. Playing the lead role demanded not only emotional resilience but also an intense physical transformation.”
Rashmika Mandanna: On-Screen Chemistry and Off-Screen Respect
Vijay also addressed the constant media speculation surrounding his dynamic with actress Rashmika Mandanna. While fans and tabloids continue to speculate about their off-screen relationship, Vijay focused on their professional rapport.
“Rashmika is a phenomenal actor and a fantastic human being. Our mutual respect translates into seamless on-screen chemistry,” he said. “Whether it’s Geetha Govindam or now in Kingdom, working with her brings a certain energy that elevates every scene.”
Filmmakers Who Shaped His Journey
When asked about directors who have significantly influenced his career, Vijay was quick to mention Puri Jagannadh, Sandeep Reddy Vanga, and Sukumar. “Each of them gave me roles that allowed me to stretch as an actor. Puri sir unlocked my mass appeal, while Sandeep and Sukumar brought out my depth.”
Vijay also expressed a growing interest in collaborating with Bollywood directors such as Zoya Akhtar and Anurag Kashyap. “Their scripts are layered and character-driven—exactly the kind of work I want to explore next,” he added.
The Road Ahead
With Kingdom slated for a Diwali 2025 release, the anticipation among fans is soaring. The film’s teaser, which dropped last month, already amassed over 20 million views within 48 hours, making it one of the most-watched Telugu teasers of the year.
Aside from Kingdom, Deverakonda has several projects in development, including a yet-untitled romantic thriller and a pan-India action film.
As Vijay continues to evolve as both a performer and producer, he remains one of the few actors seamlessly bridging commercial success with critical acclaim. His clarity of vision and willingness to challenge norms make him not just a star, but a significant voice in modern Indian cinema.
