Happy Birthday Rajinikanth: Top 5 films of Thalaivar, the bus conductor who became India's Superstar

Rajinikanth turned 73 years old on December 12, 2023.

Rajinikanth, whose real name is Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, is an iconic Indian actor, film producer, and politician who has left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry. Born on December 12, 1950, in Bangalore, Mysore State (now Karnataka), Rajinikanth is celebrated for his unparalleled acting prowess, charismatic screen presence, and a unique style that has earned him the moniker "Superstar".

Rajinikanth hails from a humble background and worked in various odd jobs before finding his way to the film industry. His entry into the world of acting was not immediate, as he initially worked as a bus conductor in Bangalore.

He made his acting debut in the Tamil film Apoorva Raagangal in 1975, directed by the legendary K Balachander. However, it was with the film Mullum Malarum in 1978 that he gained widespread recognition for his exceptional acting skills.

Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Rajinikanth became a symbol of south Indian cinema's commercial success. His collaboration with directors like K Balachander, SP Muthuraman, and others resulted in a string of blockbusters. His larger-than-life on-screen persona, coupled with his unique dialogue delivery and stylish mannerisms, endeared him to audiences across India.

Rajinikanth's impact on Indian cinema goes beyond his films. He is not just a star but a cultural phenomenon, with a massive fan following known as "Rajini fans". His simplicity, philanthropic endeavors, and inspirational journey from a bus conductor to a global superstar contribute to his iconic status.

Rajinikanth, the legendary actor with a career spanning over four decades, has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. From his inimitable style to his charismatic screen presence, Rajinikanth has become synonymous with blockbuster success. As we delve into his illustrious filmography, let's explore the top five films that showcase the actor's versatility, captivating audiences worldwide.

The Superstar is currently basking on the succes of his recent flick Jailer which went on to collect beyond Rs 600 crore at the box office. Directed by Nelson Dilip Kumar, the film broke many stereotypes with Rajinikanth, ruling the box office like a king and bringing back its lost glory.

As Rajinikanth continues to enthrall audiences with his on-screen magic, his legacy remains etched in the hearts of fans, and his influence extends far beyond the realms of cinema. Here is a handful of his best films, in no particular order:

Top 5 films of the Superstar:

Thalapathi (1991)

Directed by Mani Ratnam, Thalapathi is a cinematic masterpiece that brings together the formidable duo of Rajinikanth and Mammootty. Rajinikanth's portrayal of Surya, a character with shades of Karna from the Mahabharata, is a poignant display of his acting prowess. The film's emotional depth, coupled with Rajinikanth's stellar performance, makes Thalapathi an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Baasha (1995)

Baasha is a film that catapulted Rajinikanth to unparalleled stardom. Directed by Suresh Krishna, the film narrates the story of an auto-rickshaw driver with a mysterious past. Rajinikanth's iconic dialogue delivery, intense action sequences, and the timeless soundtrack by Deva contributed to the film's massive success. Baasha remains a cult classic and is a testament to Rajinikanth's unmatched mass appeal.

Padayappa (1999)

Directed by KS Ravikumar, Padayappa is a blockbuster that showcases Rajinikanth in a powerful and righteous role. The film follows the journey of Padayappa, played by Rajinikanth, as he overcomes challenges and adversaries. With memorable dialogues, engaging storytelling, and Rajinikanth's commanding screen presence, Padayappa stands as one of the actor's iconic films.

Enthiran (2010)

Enthiran, also known as Robot, is a sci-fi extravaganza directed by Shankar. In this film, Rajinikanth takes on a dual role, playing both the scientist, Dr Vaseegaran, and the robot he creates, Chitti. The film's groundbreaking visual effects, coupled with Rajinikanth's charismatic performance, garnered international acclaim. Enthiran marked a significant milestone in Indian cinema for its technological advancements.

Muthu (1995)

Directed by KS Ravikumar, Muthu is a film that showcases Rajinikanth's charm and versatility. The film's success is not limited to the Indian audience but extends to international acclaim, especially in Japan. Rajinikanth's endearing performance as Muthu, along with AR Rahman's soul-stirring music, contributed to the film's global popularity.

While these five films represent the pinnacle of Rajinikanth's cinematic journey, his filmography is a treasure trove of entertaining and impactful movies. As the 'Superstar' continues to captivate audiences with his unique style and unmatched charisma, the legacy of Rajinikanth in Indian cinema remains unparalleled.