Dec 10, 2025 Languages : English | ಕನ್ನಡ

Who is Rachana Rai? The Rising Star Opposite Darshan in 'The Devil'

Rachana Rai is a rapidly emerging talent in Indian cinema, notably making headlines as the lead actress opposite Challenging Star Darshan in the highly anticipated Kannada film, 'The Devil.' Her casting marks a significant step in her career, positioning her for wider recognition within the Kannada film industry (Sandalwood).

Rachana Rai | Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/_rachanarai._/
Rachana Rai | Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/_rachanarai._/

Here is a detailed look at the actress:

Background and Early Career

Rachana Rai hails from Puttur in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. Her journey into cinema began in the regional film circuits before her entry into Sandalwood.

  • Debut in Tulu Cinema: She commenced her acting career with the Tulu film 'Circus' (released in 2023).
  • Entry into Kannada Cinema: Rachana made her debut in the Kannada film industry with the movie 'Vamana,' where she was paired with Dhanveer Gowda. Her role was reportedly that of a practical girl who works as a receptionist and fights for her love, offering ample scope for performance.

Role in 'The Devil'

In Darshan's 'The Devil,' directed by Prakash Veer, Rachana Rai plays a crucial lead role. The film, an action drama, is described as "a saga of power, vengeance, and true love." Rachana shares the screen with an ensemble cast that includes Mahesh Manjrekar, Achyuth Kumar, and Sharmiela Mandre.

Her selection for this major project opposite a superstar like Darshan indicates her growing prominence and the confidence filmmakers have in her acting abilities.

A Multifaceted Talent

Rachana Rai is known for her diverse skill set, proving she is a truly multifaceted artist beyond just acting:

  • Classical Dancer: She is a talented and trained Bharatanatyam dancer.
  • Sportsperson: She is also a state-level and national-level badminton player.
  • Author and Artist: Rachana has showcased her creativity as an author, having written a book titled 'O My Dog.' She also has a keen interest in painting.
  • Education: She reportedly holds a degree in Journalism.

With a strong foundation in regional cinema and multiple creative talents, Rachana Rai is viewed as an exciting addition to the Kannada film industry, and her role in 'The Devil' is set to be a significant turning point in her professional journey.