Actors Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda were full of praise for each other at a recent event celebrating the success of Rashmika’s new film The Girlfriend, adding further fuel to ongoing rumours about their engagement.

Rashmika, addressing her Dear Comrade co-star affectionately as “Viju,” thanked Vijay for supporting her throughout the film’s journey. “You’ve been a part of this film from the very beginning. You’re also a part of its success. You have been there personally through the entire journey. I hope everyone has a Vijay Deverakonda in their lives. It’s a blessing,” she said.

Vijay, in turn, applauded Rashmika’s growth and her decision to take on a challenging script. “To the woman she has become today… At the peak of her career, she chose a story she wasn’t sure how many people would come to see, but she wanted to tell something meaningful. Russie, I’m proud of your journey, and of the woman you are,” he said, according to a video shared by Geetha Arts.

A separate clip from the event has also gone viral, showing Vijay greeting Rashmika with a gentle kiss on her hand — a rare public display of affection that quickly delighted fans.

The pair, long speculated to be in a relationship, are reportedly engaged after a private ceremony held on October 3 at Vijay’s residence in Hyderabad, attended by both families. However, neither actor has issued an official confirmation or shared photos from the event. According to sources, the wedding has been scheduled for February 2026.

With inputs from NDTV