Kriti Sanon shields Rashmika Mandanna as fans breach security at Cocktail 2 event

Actors Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna faced chaotic scenes during a promotional event for their upcoming film Cocktail 2 at a mall in Pune, after a massive crowd surged past security barricades in an attempt to get closer to the stars.

A video from the event, which has since gone viral on social media, showed fans overwhelming security arrangements, forcing organisers to cut the event short. Amid the commotion, Kriti Sanon’s protective gesture towards Rashmika Mandanna drew widespread praise online.

Kriti shields Rashmika amid crowd surge

The footage showed Shahid, Kriti and Rashmika struggling to move through the packed venue as security personnel attempted to escort them to safety.

While Shahid appeared visibly frustrated by the situation, Kriti was seen holding on to Rashmika and guiding her through the crowd, shielding her from pushing and jostling fans. Her actions quickly became a talking point on social media, with many users applauding her concern for her co-star.

“The way Kriti is protecting Rashmika… like a younger sister,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Kriti protecting Rashmika is pure bond.” Others described the moment as “heartwarming” and praised the actor for displaying “elder sister energy.”

Several social media users also criticised the crowd management at the venue and condemned the behaviour of fans who broke through security barricades.

About Cocktail 2

Directed by Homi Adajania, Cocktail 2 serves as a spiritual sequel to the 2012 hit Cocktail. The film stars Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna and centres on a love triangle involving the three lead characters.

At the trailer launch, Adajania addressed speculation that the film was a lesbian love story. He clarified that the rumours stemmed from a light-hearted conversation on set about an alternative storyline involving the two female leads and Shahid’s character as the “third wheel.”

Cocktail 2 is scheduled to release in theatres on June 19.