This is Part 13 of Legends of Indian Cinema, our 20-part series on the actors, filmmakers and musicians who shaped Indian films across languages. New here? Start with Part 1: Dadasaheb Phalke, or read the previous part, Part 12: Amitabh Bachchan.
In Tamil Nadu, his films open like festivals. Offices give the day off, fans pour milk over giant cut-outs and theatres hold shows at dawn. Rajinikanth, known simply as "Thalaivar" (Leader) or "Superstar", has been the biggest crowd-puller in Indian cinema for nearly half a century. In October 2026, Jailer 2 showed that his box-office power is as strong as ever.
Early life
- Born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad on 12 December 1950 in Bangalore, in a Marathi-speaking family.
- He lost his mother at a young age and took up odd jobs. He then worked as a bus conductor with the Bangalore Transport Service, where his stylish ticket-punching amused passengers.
- Encouraged by friends, he joined the Madras Film Institute to study acting.
Discovered by K. Balachander
- Director K. Balachander gave him his first role in Apoorva Raagangal (1975). He also suggested the name "Rajinikanth".
- His early roles were often villains or anti-heroes, alongside Kamal Haasan in films such as Moondru Mudichu (1976) and 16 Vayathinile (1977).
- Mullum Malarum (1978) proved his acting ability, and Billa (1980) made him a mass hero.
The style
His trademark moves, such as flipping a cigarette into his mouth, twirling sunglasses and his fast, sharp walk, became part of popular culture. His punch dialogues are quoted by fans of every age. Off screen, he is known for his simplicity, often appearing in public without make-up or a wig.
Blockbusters across decades
- Baasha (1995): his most iconic role, as an auto driver hiding a gangster past.
- Muthu (1995): it became a surprise hit in Japan, creating a large fan following there.
- Padayappa (1999), Chandramukhi (2005) and Sivaji (2007).
- Enthiran (2010) and 2.0 (2018), Shankar's science-fiction spectacles.
- Jailer (2023), directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, one of the biggest Tamil hits ever, followed by Coolie (2025).
- Jailer 2 released in mid-October 2026 and opened to record-breaking collections worldwide.
Honours
- Padma Bhushan (2000) and Padma Vibhushan (2016).
- The Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2019, presented in 2021.
- He completed 50 years in cinema in 2025.
Legacy
Rajinikanth's appeal crosses languages, classes and countries. He is proof that charisma, hard work and humility can take an ordinary person to the very top.
Next in the series: Part 14: Kamal Haasan.
