Rajinikanth is the legendary icon of Indian cinema. Not just in Tamil films—across the entire Indian film industry, his name carries an emotional depth. The superstar celebrated his 75th birthday on Friday, December 12.
His life story is more dramatic than most screenplays. Born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad in Bengaluru, he once worked as a coolie and later as a bus conductor. Rising from that ordinary life to becoming the “Superstar” of the silver screen proves one thing: with talent and determination, no dream is out of reach.
Rajinikanth made his debut in 1975 with K. Balachander’s film ‘Apoorva Raagangal’. He began with villainous and supporting roles, but his unique style and screen presence quickly pushed him into the mainstream.
What draws people to Rajinikanth most is his unmistakable style and mannerisms—the iconic way he flips his sunglasses, lights a cigarette, walks briskly, and delivers his signature dialogue. These made him ‘Thalaiva.’ His films almost always trigger a box-office storm.
Movies like ‘Sivaji’, ‘Enthiran’, ‘Petta’, and ‘Jailer testify’ to his enduring popularity. Whether it’s action, comedy, or romance, he moves through every genre with ease.
Off-screen, Rajinikanth is known for his humility and spiritual nature. He avoids extravagant lifestyles and often appears before fans in simple attire. This down-to-earth attitude makes him even more beloved.
For over five decades, Rajinikanth has contributed to Indian cinema with unwavering dedication. He has been honored with the ‘Padma Bhushan’, ‘Padma Vibhushan’, and the ‘Dadasaheb Phalke Award’—the highest recognition in Indian filmmaking.
Even today, fans line up in huge numbers whenever his films are released. In many places, people even worship him. For years, filmmakers have avoided showing his character die on screen—because his fans simply won’t accept it. To them, he is one of a kind.
He is, truly, the real superstar of Indian cinema.
