A still from the video. (courtesy: Horizon Hindi Prime Ent)
Superstar Rajinikanth is a name that needs no introduction. The actor is one of the most celebrated names of Indian cinema, enjoying a god-like status not just in Tamil Nadu but also across the country. Even countries like Japan and Russia are not oblivious to the charm and style of Rajinikanth, with masses thronging to theatres to see the actor flick his cigarette like no one else can. At the age of 72, Rajinikanth continues to be one of the most bankable stars in the country. On his birthday, we look at ten of his best films that you must not miss.
1. Apoorva Raagangal
Rajinikanth's debut film is a wonderful example of the actor's range. The film, which stars Kamal Haasan, Sundarrajan, and Srividya alongside Rajinikanth, deals with a nuanced take on relationships.
2. Mullum Malarum
Mullum Malarum is one of Rajinikanth's most acclaimed films. He plays the role of Kali, a cable trolley operator who locks horns with his boss. The film featured him as an angry young man with a purpose.
3. Thalapathi
Mani Ratnam and Rajinikanth are a match made in heaven. This contemporary take on Mahabharata has Rajinikanth in a role inspired by Karna. He is a friend, lover and son you want to root for.
4. Baashha
Baashha is synonymous with being cool even 25 years after its release. Rajinikanth plays the role of an auto-driver, who has a violent backstory. He is forced to confront it after his sister's life is in danger.
5. Muthu
The film, directed by K.S. Ravikumar, also featured Sarath Babu And Meena. The storyline revolves around Rajinikanth's Muthu, who works as a house help. The film broke a number of records at the box office.
6. Sivaji
In this S. Shankar directorial, Rajinikanth plays the role of a software engineer. The plot revolves around how he fights all the odds to help the common people. Sivaji also featured Shriya Saran in a crucial role.
7.Billa
A list of Rajinikanth's films can't be complete without this one. The all-time blockbuster saw Rajinikanth play a double role - Billa and Rajappa. The film was a remake of Don, starring Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role.
8.Annamalai
In Annamalai, the spotlight is on the unlikely friendship between Annamalai, a milkman, and Ashok, a wealthy hotelier. The film, directed by Suresh Krishna, is a remake of the hit Bollywood film Khudgarz.
9. Padayappa
One of Rajinikanth's most iconic films Padayappa was released in 1999 and featured a stellar star cast - Sivaji Ganesan, Soundarya, Abbas, Lakshmi, Nassar and Ramya Krishnan. Rajinikanth is Padayappa, who works day and night to restore the honour of his family after they are humiliated and thrown out of their home by a relative.
10.Enthiran
This sci-fi film, released in 2010, is one of the biggest blockbusters of all time. Rajinikanth appears as a robot onscreen in this S Shankar project that also featured Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The film has all elements of entertainment - Rajinikanth in a dual role, brilliant VFX, as well as a perfect dose of comedy and action.
Wishing Rajinikanth, a very happy birthday.