Bhubaneswar, July 1 -- https://images.odishatv.in/uploadimage/library/16_9/16_9_0/recent_photo_1746459547.jpg

Rashmika Mandanna, who played a lead role in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's 'Animal', has come forward to defend the film amid ongoing criticism for its alleged toxic masculinity and hyper-violent themes.

In a recent interview, Rashmika Mandanna addressed the backlash by saying, "No one is forcing you to go and watch the film. You have the freedom to not consume something that doesn't align with your taste."

Her comment echoes a similar stance taken by Kareena Kapoor Khan, who in the past defended films and filmmakers facing criticism over content. During the release of Kabir Singh, also directed by Vanga, and other films with polarising ...