Rashmika Mandanna to Star in Biopic of Legendary Singer M.S. Subbulakshmi

A new biopic titled 'MS - A Legacy on Screen' featuring Rashmika Mandanna as the iconic singer M.S. Subbulakshmi has been announced. The film was launched by Kamal Haasan during an event celebrating Subbulakshmi's 110th birth anniversary. Rashmika expressed her pride and commitment to the role, while Haasan highlighted the challenges of portraying such a legendary figure. The event also saw emotional moments, including a performance by Subbulakshmi's great-granddaughters and the attendance of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This film aims to honor the musical legacy of a true icon.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 17, 2026, 16:30 IST

Upcoming Biopic on M.S. Subbulakshmi

A new film inspired by the life of the iconic classical vocalist M.S. Subbulakshmi is currently in development. Rashmika Mandanna has been cast to portray the celebrated singer, a detail she previously revealed on her social media platforms. The film was officially announced by Kamal Haasan during an event in Bengaluru on September 16, coinciding with M.S. Subbulakshmi's 110th birth anniversary.

Title and First Look Revealed

What is the title of the biopic?
The biopic is titled *MS - A Legacy on Screen*, with Rashmika Mandanna taking on the role of Subbulakshmi. At the launch, Kamal Haasan likened the pressure of embodying such a legendary figure to that of portraying a global icon like Michael Jackson.

During the event, the film's title and first look were unveiled, marking the special occasion of M.S. Subbulakshmi's birth anniversary.

Kamal Haasan's Involvement

Kamal Haasan gave the first clap.
Kamal Haasan initiated the event with the first clap, joined by veteran producer Mani Ratnam and Rashmika Mandanna. Rashmika expressed her heartfelt gratitude for being part of this significant project, while Kamal Haasan reflected on M.S. Subbulakshmi's enduring musical legacy and the challenges of translating her story to film.

Kamal Haasan emphasized Subbulakshmi's impact on music, noting that her songs, performed in multiple languages, served to unite people. He stated, "Amma worked to unite people through her music."

Rashmika's Commitment to the Role

Rashmika made this promise to the audience.
At the event, Rashmika shared her pride in taking on this role, saying, "I feel very proud to be speaking before all of you." She expressed deep gratitude for the audience's presence in celebrating Amma's birthday, stating, "When I hear her voice, filled with divine power, I truly feel as though I am sitting in the presence of the Divine." Rashmika assured everyone that she would dedicate herself fully to this role.

Emotional Moments at the Event

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gets emotional at the event
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman attended the Bengaluru event commemorating M.S. Subbulakshmi's 110th birth anniversary as the chief guest. She became visibly emotional while listening to a performance, which also featured Subbulakshmi's great-granddaughters.

A Glimpse into M.S. Subbulakshmi's Legacy

Born on September 6, 1916, in Madurai, M.S. Subbulakshmi was the first musician to be awarded the prestigious 'Bharat Ratna', receiving this honor in 1998. She also made history as the first Indian artist to perform at the United Nations General Assembly in 1966. Subbulakshmi passed away in Chennai on December 11, 2004, at the age of 88.

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