Today is the 74th birthday of one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema, Rajinikanth. Known for his larger-than-life screen presence, unparalleled style, and immense fan following, Rajinikanth is more than just an actor; he is a cultural phenomenon. As the superstar turns another year older, let’s dive into some intriguing facts about his life and career that highlight his extraordinary journey and enduring legacy.
Humble beginnings
Born as Shivaji Rao Gaekwad on December 12, 1950, in Bangalore, Rajinikanth’s rise to stardom is a true rags-to-riches story. Before his foray into cinema, he worked as a bus conductor for the Bangalore Transport Service. His charisma and unique mannerisms, which later became his signature style, were already evident during his days as a conductor.
Acting debut
Rajinikanth’s entry into the film industry was a turning point in his life. He joined the Madras Film Institute in 1973, where his acting talent was honed. His film career began with the Tamil film Apoorva Raagangal in 1975, directed by K Balachander, who became his mentor and gave him the screen name Rajinikanth. Despite playing supporting roles initially, his unique style and screen presence soon caught the audience’s attention.
The birth of a Superstar
The film Bairavi in 1978 marked Rajinikanth’s first lead role, and it was here that he earned the title Superstar. His distinctive style, including his way of flipping cigarettes and his brisk gait, became his trademarks. Movies like Mullum Malarum, Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai, and Moondru Mugam solidified his status as a leading actor in Tamil cinema.
Phenomenal success
Rajinikanth’s films are known for their mass appeal and box office success. His film Baashha (1995) became a cult classic, with his portrayal of a don earning him widespread acclaim. The 2007 film Sivaji, directed by S Shankar, further elevated his status, making him one of the highest-paid actors in Asia at the time. Enthiran (2010) and its sequel 2.0 (2018) showcased his versatility and continued his legacy of box office dominance.
A philanthropist
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Rajinikanth is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has donated generously to various causes, including education and healthcare. His humble nature and dedication to giving back to society have endeared him to millions of fans.
Political aspirations
In recent years, Rajinikanth has also ventured into politics. Although he announced his entry into politics in 2017, he has maintained a cautious approach, emphasising the need for honest and corruption-free governance.
International recognition
Rajinikanth’s popularity is not confined to India alone. He has a significant fan following in Japan, where his film Muthu was a massive hit. His influence extends across the globe, with fans celebrating his birthday and film releases with great enthusiasm.
Personal life
Despite his superstardom, Rajinikanth leads a relatively simple and spiritual life. He married Latha Rangachari in 1981, and the couple has two daughters, Aishwarya and Soundarya, both of whom are involved in the film industry.
Awards and recognition
Rajinikanth has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Padma Bhushan (2000) and Padma Vibhushan (2016), two of India’s highest civilian honours.