HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAJINIKANTH: Rajinikanth, born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad on December 12, 1950, in Bangalore, is a legendary actor, film producer, and cultural icon in the Indian cinema. His contributions to the entertainment industry have made him one of the most influential and celebrated figures, earning him the title “Superstar.”
The actor’s journey in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of spectacular. From his humble beginnings to achieving iconic status, he has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
EARLY LIFE
Son of a Marathi police constable in Bangalore, Rajinikanth’s early life was marked by challenges. He faced financial constraints, leading young Rajinikanth to take on odd jobs like coolie work and bus conductor duties to support his family. Despite the hardships, he never lost sight of his dreams and persevered with unwavering spirit. This early struggle and resilience are central to his character, shaping him into the determined and grounded individual he is today.
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FAMILY LIFE
In 1980 that Rajinikanth tied the knot with playback singer Latha, beginning a new phase in life. Since then, the ‘Thalaiva’ has maintained a low profile on the personal front. The father of noted filmmakers Aishwarya and Soundarya, the actor rarely talks about his family life at public events. His dedication to his family life demonstrates a side of him that goes beyond the silver screen.
THE ORIGIN OF THE NAME “SUPERSTAR”
The title “Superstar” was not self-proclaimed; it was bestowed upon Rajinikanth by film director K Balachander.
Balachander introduced Rajinikanth in the Tamil film “Apoorva Raagangal” (1975), where he played a small but impactful role. Impressed by his screen presence and acting skills, Balachander identified his star potential and dubbed him “Superstar,” a name that has since become synonymous with Rajinikanth’s larger-than-life persona.
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TOP 10 MOVIES
- Billa (1990)The film was a turning point in Rajinikanth’s career.
- Muthu (1995)A blockbuster that gained international recognition.
- Sivaji (2007)A high-budget film that set new standards in Tamil cinema.
- Enthiran (2010)A sci-fi film where Rajinikanth played a dual role.
- Kabali (2016)A crime-drama showcasing Rajinikanth’s versatility.
- Kaala (2018)Addressing social issues, Rajinikanth delivered a powerful performance.
- Baashha (1995)A cult classic that elevated Rajinikanth’s stardom.
- Sri Raghavendra (1985)A biographical film depicting the life of the saint Raghavendra.
- Thalapathi (1991)Directed by Mani Ratnam, a compelling crime drama.
- Arunachalam (1997)A family drama with Rajinikanth in a memorable role.
TOP 10 SONGS
- Oruvan Oruvan – Muthu
- Style – Sivaji
- Kadhal Anukkal – Enthiran
- Neruppu Da – Kabali
- Rajathi Raja – Agni Natchathiram
- Vanthenda Paalkaran – Annamalai
- Rakkamma Kaiya Thattu – Thalapathi
- Athinthom” – Arunachalam
- Endhiran – Enthiran
- Kilimanjaro – Robot
TOP 10 DIALOGUES
1. Film: 16 Vayadhinile
Dialogue: Idhu eppadi irukku?
Translation: How’s this?
2. Film: Murattu Kaalai
Dialogue: Seeviduven!
Translation: I’ll chop you to pieces!
3. Film: Annamalai
Dialogue: Naan solrathaiyum seiven, sollathathiyum seiven
Translation: I’ll do what I say. I’ll also do what I don’t say
4. Film: Sivaji
Dialogue: Pera kettaale chumma adhirudhulla?
Translation: Doesn’t everything quake at the mere mention of my name?
5. Film: Baasha
Dialogue: Naan oru thadava sonna, nooru thadava sonna madhiri
Translation: If I say it once, it’s like saying it a 100 times.
6. Film: Muthu
Dialogue: Naan eppo varuven, epdi varuvennu yarkum theriyathu. Aana vara vendiya nerathile vandidven
Translation: Nobody knows when or how I will come, but I will come when the time is right
7. Film: Arunachalam
Dialogue: Aandavan solran Arunchalam mudikaran
Translation: God commands, Arunchalam obeys
8. Film: Baba
Dialogue: Khatam… Khatam… Mudinjathu mudinju potchu
Translation: Let bygones be bygones
9. Film: Thalapathi
Dialogue: Natpu na enna theriyuma, Nanban na enna theriyuma?
Translation: Do you know the meaning of friendship?
10. Film: Sivaji
Dialogue: Kanna Paninga Thaan Kootama Varum Singam Single ah Thaan Varum
Translation: Only pigs come in groups, lion always comes solo
RECENT AND UPCOMING PROJECTS
- Thalaivar 170 (2024)The movie is being directed by TJ Gnanavel, who last helmed the critically acclaimed film Jai Bhim. Superstar Rajinikanth will reportedly play the role of a retired Muslim police officer who reopens a case to seek justice. The movie is likely to be released in 2024. The movie also features Amitabh Bachchan.
- Jailer (2023)Directed by Nelson, Jailer is a comedy film starring Rajinikanth, Vasanth Ravi, and Yogi Babu. Bankrolled under the banner of Sun Pictures, the movie also marks the Tamil debut of actor Shiva Rajkumar.
- Annaatthe (2021)Starring Rajinikanth, Khushbu, Nayanthara, Meena, and Keerthy Suresh in the lead roles, this Tamil actioner was helmed by director Siva. The plot of the movie outlines the story of a brother who leaves no stone unturned to protect his younger sister from the clutches of the mafia after she elopes with her lover.
- Darbar (2020)While Anirudh Ravichander scored the music for the film, Darbar features Rajinikanth, Nayanthara, Suniel Shetty, Nivetha Thomas, and Prateik Babbar in prominent roles. The movie follows the life of Mumbai’s police commissioner, who while catching a drug peddler, uncovers a deeper secret related to an international drug lord. He goes to extreme lengths to bring the gangster to justice.
- Petta (2019)Helmed by Karthik Subbaraj, Petta stars an ensemble cast of Rajinikanth, Vijay Sethupathi, Malvika Mohanan, Trisha, Bobby Simha, and more. The movie chronicles the life of a hostel warden Kaali, who while saving his best friend’s son from local thugs, is forced to face a buried truth from the past.
BEYOND THE SILVER SCREEN
More than just an actor, Rajinikanth has become a cultural phenomenon, transcending the boundaries of cinema. His iconic image and larger-than-life persona have earned him a dedicated fan following across the globe. He is a source of inspiration and a symbol of hope for millions, proving that dreams can be achieved through hard work and unwavering dedication.