Producer SKN takes indirect dig at Deepika Padukone, praises Rashmika for ‘not counting her working hours’

The official trailer of Rashmika Mandanna’s The Girlfriend was launched at a grand ceremony on Saturday. Among others, producer SKN was present. On the occasion, SKN praised Rashmika for her professionalism and simplicity, and also ended up making an indirect dig at Deepika Padukone.

Speaking about Rashmika, SKN said. “No matter how successful she has become, she is still very down to earth. She follows simplicity, not publicity.” Praising her work-ethic, the Baby producer noted, “She is the only pan-India heroine who still has the same commitment and dedication towards her work. Also, at a time when there are debates happening about how many hours one should work, Rashmika proves that she can work without any limits or restrictions. For her, work is not measured in hours — She treats her work with love.”

SKN was evidently referring to the massive discourse that took place when Deepika Padukone walked out of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit reportedly due to her demands for a strict eight-hour workday being refused by the producers.

Speaking about The Girlfriend, SKN stated, “This film will definitely teach us a few things about relationships.” The film’s trailer particularly stands out for its perspective, promising to tell a story from a young woman’s point of view. Addressing the men at the event, SKN added on a lighter note, “Even if we don’t learn anything, it’s okay. We men will always carry our male attitude. But for those 3 hours, try and keep that attitude aside as you watch this film.”

Among others, the film’s presenter Allu Aravind, director Rahul Ravindran, Bunny Vas were present at the event.

Directed by Rahul Ravindran, The Girlfriend also stars Dheekshith Shetty and Rao Ramesh in prominent roles. The film is slated for a theatrical release on November 7.