Page 6 - Seniorstoday July 2024 Issue

Cover Story
From Bus Conductor to Demigod:
Unveiling the Enigma of Rajinikanth
Rajinikanth stands as one of the most popular actors to emerge from the
Indian film industry and continues to command lead roles in his films,
writes Dr S Ramachandran
Born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, the 73-year-
old Rajinikanth stands as one of the most
popular actors to emerge from the Indian
film industry. Unlike his Bollywood
counterpart, Amitabh Bachchan, who
has transitioned into character roles,
Rajinikanth continues to command lead
roles in his films.
His fame extends well beyond India,
resonating deeply within the global Indian
diaspora. Reflecting on his journey at a
public event in 1992, Rajinikanth shared
insights into his early struggles and the
hurdles he faced before entering showbiz.
His debut in 1975 with the Tamil drama
“Apoorva Raagangal” at the age of 25
marked the beginning of a remarkable
career. Recalling his formative years, the
megastar candidly discussed his humble
beginnings, having taken on jobs such as
6
carpentry, coolie work, and bus conductor
before venturing into acting.
“I did all that because I was born into
a poor family. I knew poverty not
by seeing or hearing about it but by
experiencing it,” Rajinikanth revealed.
Despite facing adversity, he harboured
a fierce determination to rise above his
circumstances. He candidly admitted, “I
have never feared anything in my life, even
when I was young. But once I was very
scared and I decided to commit suicide.”
A pivotal moment shifted his trajectory
when he encountered a spiritual figure that
altered his perspective. “That’s when I saw
a painting of a godman and people were
doing puja. Seeing him, I decided to push
the decision to another day,” he recalled.
A transformative dream followed that
night, where the godman appeared to him,