Vijay Deverakonda-Rashmika Mandanna meet CM Vijay, call him 'already a favourite'

Actors Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister-actor Vijay. The meeting comes ahead of the release of the duo's next film, Ranabaali.Vijay Deverakonda, Rashmika Mandanna and CM Vijay shared personal insights into life, work and the world. (Credit: Instagram/thedeverakonda)New Delhi,Oct 12, 2026 21:48 ISTAhead of the release of their upcoming period drama Ranabaali, actor-couple Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna met actor-turned-politician Vijay in Chennai. While sharing his experience of the meeting, Deverakonda mentioned that the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam president was "already a favourite."The Ranabaali actor wrote, "Had the most beautiful time with the dearest Thalapathy Vijay Sir. Even after a long day, he received us with so much love and shared such personal insights into life, work and the world. One meeting and sir is already a favourite (sic).""Until next time, my love and respect. Vijay Deverakonda :) (sic)," he added. In the pictures from the meeting, Deverakonda is seen dressed in a formal bandhgala jacket paired with black trousers, while Rashmika Mandanna looked elegant in a traditional dark blue silk saree. CM Vijay opted for a crisp, dark navy shirt and dark trousers. In one of the pictures, Vijay is seen sharing a warm hug with Deverakonda.Slated for a worldwide theatrical release on October 16, 2026, Ranabaali marks another major collaboration between Deverakonda and Mandanna since their marriage in February 2026.Directed by Rahul Sankrityan and backed by Mythri Movie Makers alongside T-Series, the film is a pan-India period action drama set against the backdrop of Great Madras Famine of 1876-78. The film features Deverakonda in the lead alongside Mandanna, with music composed by Ajay-Atul.The meeting holds added significance following Vijay's transition into full-time politics with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Having assumed office as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.Meanwhile, Vijay's last theatrical release, also considered his final film, was director H Vinoth's action drama Jana Nayagan (2026). The film also featured actors Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Nassar and Prakash Raj in key roles.- Ends