14 September,2026 12:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Mangala Gowri first look. Pic via Instagram
Rukmini Vasanth is trading her usual screen image for khaki in her upcoming Kannada film, Mangala Gowri. The actor has unveiled the first look of the Rahul PK directorial, giving audiences a glimpse of her character as a police officer. Seated on a scooter and dressed in uniform, Rukmini Vasanth appears to be stepping into a more authoritative avatar for the film.
The first-look image also features veteran actor Malashree, bringing together two leading women from different generations of Kannada cinema. Their pairing is among the aspects that have piqued interest around the project, with the film offering both actors an opportunity to share the screen in a story that brings their contrasting experiences to the forefront.
Rukmini Vasanth has built a reputation for choosing characters that allow her to explore different shades as a performer. With Mangala Gowri, the actor appears to be moving into unfamiliar territory, taking on the role of a cop and sporting the khaki uniform for the first time in this new avatar.
The first look keeps details about her character under wraps, but the image of Rukmini on a scooter suggests that the role could involve plenty of movement and action. Her composed appearance in uniform also marks a noticeable departure from the softer, more understated characters she has played in some of her previous films.
The film is directed and co-written by Rahul PK, who has penned the story alongside Pooja Sudhir. While details about the plot are being kept under wraps, the combination of Rukmini and Malashree has added another layer of curiosity to the project.
Mangala Gowri also reunites Rukmini with filmmaker Hemanth M Rao following their collaboration on Sapta Saagaradaache Ello. The actor is also working with KVN Productions for the second time after Toxic: A Fairytale for Grownups, making the project another significant association in her career.
Backed by KVN Productions and Dakshayani Talkies, the film has music by Midhun Mukundan, with Srivathsan Selvarajan handling cinematography and Vikram Mor choreographing the action sequences. Venkat K Narayana and Hemanth M Rao have produced the project.
The makers have already completed around 75 per cent of the shoot, with production currently moving towards completion. While a release date is yet to be announced, Rukmini's cop avatar and her on-screen combination with Malashree have certainly added intrigue to the upcoming Kannada film.
