Born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, Rajinikanth worked as a coolie and later as a bus conductor in Bengaluru, where his distinctive style first drew public attention. Encouraged by his then girlfriend Nirmala, he joined the Madras Film Institute with financial support from friend Raj Bahadur. During training, director K. Balachander spotted him and offered a role on the condition that he learn Tamil — a skill Rajinikanth mastered within weeks.
He made his debut in Apoorva Raagangal (1975), playing negative roles for the first few years before gaining momentum. The turning point came in 1980 with Billa, the Tamil remake of Don, after which Rajinikanth emerged as one of the industry’s most bankable stars. In just a decade, he appeared in 100 films, an unmatched feat in South Indian cinema.
Over the years, Rajinikanth built a legacy through memorable characters — Surya in Thalapathi, Manik Baasha in Baasha, the socially driven engineer in Sivaji, the dual roles of Dr. Vaseegaran and Chitti in Enthiran, and the ageing gangster in Kabali and Kaala. His punch dialogues and screen presence turned many of these films into cultural landmarks.
The actor’s influence extends far beyond the screen. His fans, known for extraordinary devotion, have performed rituals for his health, broken coconuts in celebration, and even staged extreme acts driven by emotion.
Despite near-retirement moments and criticism during low phases in the late ’70s, Rajinikanth re-emerged repeatedly, shaping a career built on resilience, humility, and unparalleled fan support.
As the superstar enters his 75th year, the legacy of Rajinikanth remains not only cinematic but deeply personal for millions who see in him a story of perseverance and transformation.
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