With his 1978 lead debut in Bairavi, Rajinikanth established himself as a Tamil cinema superstar, winning the moniker of Superstar and enthralling audiences with his distinct acting style and powerful parts.
Rajinikanth, one of the most recognizable characters in Indian film, is 74 years old today. Rajinikanth is more than simply an actor; he is a cultural phenomenon, renowned for his enormous fan base, unmatched style, and larger-than-life on-screen persona. Let’s explore some fascinating facts about the superstar’s life and work that showcase his remarkable journey and lasting legacy as he approaches another year of age.
humble origins
A real rags-to-riches tale, Rajinikanth was born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad in Bangalore on December 12, 1950. Prior to entering the film industry, he was employed by the Bangalore Transport Service as a bus conductor. His days as a conductor were already marked by his charisma and distinctive gestures, which would eventually become his defining style.
debut as an actor
A pivotal moment in Rajinikanth’s life occurred when he entered the movie business. at 1973, he enrolled at the Madras Film Institute, where his acting skills were refined. In 1975, K Balachander, who later became his mentor and gave him the screen name Rajinikanth, directed the Tamil film Apoorva Raagangal, which marked the beginning of his cinematic career. Even though he started out in supporting parts, the audience quickly became interested in his distinct style and on-screen persona.
Creating a Superstar
Rajinikanth’s first major part was in the 1978 movie Bairavi, which is when he initially gained the moniker of Superstar. His unique style, which included his fast walk and cigarette flipping technique, became his signature. His reputation as a top performer in Tamil cinema was cemented by films like Moondru Mugam, Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai, and Mullum Malarum.
Amazing achievement
Films directed by Rajinikanth are renowned for their widespread appeal and financial success. He received significant praise for his portrayal of a don in his 1995 film Baashha, which went on to become a cult classic. His reputation was further enhanced by the 2007 S Shankar-directed movie Sivaji, which at the time made him one of the highest-paid performers in Asia. Enthiran (2010) and its follow-up 2.0 (2018) shown his adaptability and carried on his tradition of dominating the box office.
A benefactor
In addition to his accomplishments in film, Rajinikanth is well-known for his charitable work. He has made significant contributions to a number of areas, such as healthcare and education. Millions of followers have grown to love him because of his modest demeanor and commitment to giving back to the community.
Aspirations in politics
Rajinikanth has also dabbled in politics in recent years. Despite declaring his intention to enter politics in 2017, he has remained cautious, highlighting the importance of honest and corruption-free administration.
Recognition on a global scale
The popularity of Rajinikanth is not limited to India. In Japan, where his movie Muthu was a huge smash, he has a sizable fan base. His admirers enthusiastically celebrate his birthday and new film releases, demonstrating his global popularity.
Individual life
Rajinikanth maintains a modest and pious lifestyle despite being a household name. Aishwarya and Soundarya, the couple’s two children, are both working in the film industry. He married Latha Rangachari in 1981.
Honors and acknowledgment
Throughout his career, Rajinikanth has won various accolades, including two of India’s highest civilian honors, the Padma Bhushan (2000) and the Padma Vibhushan (2016).