‘What the FK is going on?’: Rashmika Mandanna hits back at trolls targeting Vijay Deverakonda, calls criticism ‘bullying dressed up as feminism’

The couple appeared as guests on the second episode of the final season of filmmaker Karan Johar's popular chat show, where they opened up about their relationship and marriage.

Some of their revelations sparked debate on social media, with Vijay facing criticism over his response when Rashmika spoke about how she first raised the idea of marriage.

Rashmika reveals how she brought up marriage

During the conversation, Rashmika revealed that she had first raised the idea of marrying Vijay at an airport.

According to Rashmika, Vijay asked her to repeat the proposal 100 times.

She eventually continued bringing up the subject for an entire year.

The revelation prompted discussions online about the couple's relationship and the circumstances surrounding their decision to get married.

As a section of online users labelled Vijay a 'red flag', Rashmika stepped in on Monday to defend her husband and their relationship, calling out the criticism as a "bully" in disguise of "feminism".

Rashmika Mandanna's statement

Rashmika wrote, "We’ve been bombarded with opinions, comments and unsolicited advice on all our profiles, mine and yours, unnecessarily. The conviction with which people came at us genuinely shook me a little. I was like, WHAT THE FK IS GOING ON? So I took a step back, thought about it, and here’s my lil’ take on my own life.

"First, it was never about the number of times or an entire year. That’s where some of you got stuck. Yes, that conversation happened. But neither of us was looking for a grand proposal.

"The conversation was about him wanting both of us to take the time and space to understand each other, to be sure that despite all the highs and lows, the joys and stresses of life, this was what we wanted and the right time for it. And we did. We chose each other."

She added, "For us, it was about building a life and a future together. And I think we did that beautifully so far... Find someone you would go to any lengths for, someone who would do the same for you. And yes, I am OBSESSED with my man. When did that become a bad thing? If I’m not IN LOVE with the man I’m marrying, then why in the world would I marry him? He’s going to be my companion for life. My friend through the ordinary days and the extraordinary ones."

"Bitch about me all you want. I can take it. But talking about my family without knowing them? That’s not feminism. That’s bullying dressed up as feminism. Feminism was never about putting someone else down or establishing superiority, whether you’re a man or a woman. It was always about having the freedom to choose your own life and taking charge of it. I took charge of mine. And it rewarded me with immense love," the actor added.

Vijay explains his response

Explaining his reaction on the show, Vijay said he did not want to make a decision as significant as marriage based on a fleeting emotional moment.

He wanted to be certain that the desire to get married was consistent and deeply felt.

"I am not an ass***e," Vijay said while explaining his actions.

However, his explanation drew mixed reactions online.

A section of social media users criticised the actor, labelling him a "red flag", while others argued that Rashmika deserved a better life partner.

Vijay and Rashmika's wedding

The Telugu film stars tied the knot in Udaipur on February 26, 2026, in a private ceremony attended by family members and close friends.

The couple called their wedding "The Wedding of VIROSH", a name inspired by the nickname their fans gave them.