Rajinikanth Birthday Special: Here is why superstardom is famously known as 'Thalaiva'
Rajinikanth Birthday Special: Rajinikanth known for his unique style, charismatic screen presence, and his ability to connect with the audience contributed to his superstardom turned 73 on Tuesday.
Rajnikanth is an actor, icon, an inspiration, one of his kind -- he's 'Thalaiva' (the leader).
Rajinikanth, whose real name is Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, was born on December 12, 1950, in Bangalore, Mysore State (now Karnataka), India. His journey from a bus conductor to one of the most celebrated actors in the Indian film industry is a remarkable story.
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While working as a bus conductor for the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), he started taking up acting roles in plays organized by the Bangalore Transport Service (BTS) Dramatic Club. Director K. Balachander noticed his talent and gave him a break in the Tamil film industry.
The 1980s saw Rajinikanth's rise to stardom with a series of successful films. Movies like "Billa," "Murattu Kaalai," "Pokkiri Raja," and "Muthu" established him as a leading actor in the Tamil film industry.
With the passage of time, Rajinikanth's unique style, charismatic screen presence, and his ability to connect with the audience contributed to his superstardom and he has been given the title of 'Thalaiva'.
Rajinikanth's acting skillset is a complete package. Known for his panache, exciting stunts and mind-boggling action, Rajinikanth can effortlessly play any kind of role -- whether it's a don, a common man, or a robot.
His powerful, action sequences, especially wherein he takes on the bigger evils in society, makes even the audience feel empowered.
From working as a bus conductor to striving hard to making it to the top, Rajinikanth's journey and success story are extremely inspirational.
He began his professional life by doing some odd jobs including that of a carpenter and a coolie. Later, he got a job with the Bangalore Transport Service as a conductor in 1973. While working as a bus conductor, Rajinikanth has often taken up roles that showed the struggles of the ordinary man, who rose to the occasion against all odds. That made him both relatable and inspiring.
By the 1990s, Rajinikanth established himself as a commercial entertainer. Almost all the films released during this period were highly successful at the box office.
His track record at the worldwide box office is remarkable. Not many know that it is Rajinikanth who began the 100-crore club in the Indian film industry.
His 2007 film 'Sivaji' was a blockbuster and reportedly the first Indian film to enter the 100-crore club. The science-fiction drama 'Enthiran' took six days to enter the 100 crore club in 2010.
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While Rajinikanth is one of the highest-paid actors in the country, he is also among the top ones who believe in charity and provide for the people in times of need and distress.
The list of his philanthropic deeds goes on.
Not restricted to Tamil cinema, Rajinikanth has made his mark in the Indian film industry as a whole. Rajinikanth's journey is a testament to his hard work, talent, and the deep connection he has with his fans. Over the years, he has become an iconic figure in Indian cinema and continues to enjoy immense popularity.
- With inputs from agencies
