On the 73rd birthday of South Indian superstar Rajinikanth, we take a journey through the life of the legendary actor who, with a humble beginning, carved his niche in the world of cinema. From his early struggles to becoming a global phenomenon, Rajinikanth’s illustrious career has left an indelible mark on both South Indian and Bollywood films. As we commemorate this special occasion, let’s delve into some noteworthy aspects of the actor’s remarkable journey.
A Humble Beginning
Born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad on December 12, 1950, in Bengaluru to a Marathi family, Rajinikanth’s journey to stardom began with the film ‘Katha Sangam’ in 1975. Raised in modest circumstances and having lost his mother at a young age, Rajinikanth’s early life involved working odd jobs, from being a porter to a bus conductor. His unique ticket-booking style made him a popular figure among bus drivers and conductors.
From Conductor to Actor
Driven by his childhood dream of becoming an actor, Rajinikanth’s friend Raj Bahadur played a pivotal role in encouraging him to enroll in the Madras Film Institute. Overcoming financial challenges, Rajinikanth, along with supportive friends, pursued his passion for acting and also mastered the Tamil language. His journey from a bus conductor to a celebrated actor showcased his determination and resilience.
Rise to Stardom
Rajinikanth’s breakthrough came when he met film director K. Balachandra, who offered him a role in ‘Apoorva Ragangal.’ Though a small negative role, it marked the beginning of a remarkable career. In the subsequent years, Rajinikanth’s commitment and hard work led to diverse roles in films across South Indian languages, establishing him as a prominent figure in the industry.
Bollywood Calling
Rajinikanth’s foray into Hindi cinema commenced with the 1983 film ‘Andha Kanoon,’ directed by T Rama Rao. Paired alongside Amitabh Bachchan, the duo created a cinematic stir, marking a memorable chapter in Rajinikanth’s filmography.
A Look at the Superstar’s Top Movies on His 73rd Birthday:
- Sivaji: The Boss (2007): In the film “Sivaji: The Boss,” Rajinikanth portrays the character of Sivaji Arumugham, a software systems architect. Directed by S. Shankar, the movie not only showcased Rajinikanth’s acting skills but also became a massive commercial success.
- Enthiran (2010): Also known as “Robot,” this science fiction movie directed by S. Shankar featured Rajinikanth in a dual role alongside Aishwarya Rai. “Enthiran” was a groundbreaking film that set new benchmarks in Indian cinema, especially in terms of special effects.
- Kabali (2016): Directed by Pa. Ranjith, “Kabali” saw Rajinikanth in the role of Kabaliswaran, a Malaysian gangster seeking justice for Tamils. The film received widespread acclaim for its storytelling and Rajinikanth’s powerful performance.
- Muthu (1995): ”Muthu,” directed by K. S. Ravikumar, is a Tamil film that showcases Rajinikanth’s versatility. The film’s success contributed to Rajinikanth’s popularity not only in South India but also in Japan, where he gained a significant fan following.
- Baasha (1995): Directed by Suresh Krishna, “Baasha” is considered one of Rajinikanth’s career-defining movies. The film’s storyline, coupled with Rajinikanth’s magnetic screen presence, made it a massive hit among audiences.
As we celebrate Rajinikanth’s 73rd birthday, his journey from a bus conductor to a global cinematic icon remains an inspirational tale. With a legacy spanning decades, Rajinikanth continues to captivate audiences with his unique style and unparalleled charisma.
