Tamil cinema superstar Ajith Kumar, who has long balanced his acting career with a deep love for motorsports, recently opened up about a powerful encounter that changed the trajectory of his life. In a candid interview with Mashable India, Ajith recalled how a meeting with Subhash Chandra Bose at a racetrack in 1990 became the turning point that led him to pursue racing seriously.
“I remember Mr Subhash Chandra Bose walking to my pits, and he said you should pursue motorsports. It’s there in you,” Ajith shared. This moment, though brief, stayed with him and gave him the push to explore motorsports beyond a hobby.
While Ajith’s career in Tamil cinema spans over three decades, filled with blockbuster hits and iconic roles, his passion for racing runs just as deep. Despite finishing fifth in the endurance race back in 1990, the encouragement he received that day remained a defining moment. Ajith noted that Subhash Chandra Bose, who was a respected figure in the motorsports community, recognized his potential and passion—something even he hadn’t fully realized at the time.
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Balancing fame and speed wasn’t always easy. Ajith acknowledged that it was the success and stability of his film career that allowed him to seriously consider racing. “The day you earn your bread and butter, you can do whatever you want to,” was a piece of advice given by his father—words he took to heart when he finally began racing professionally in 2002.
Since then, Ajith has not only participated in national races but also represented India on global tracks. Most recently, in early 2025, his racing team clinched third place in the prestigious 24H Dubai race, a testament to his dedication and skill as a serious racer.
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