Rajinikanth’s Biography, Journey, Movies, Age, Family and Legacy

Rajinikanth is one of the biggest and most influential actors in Indian cinema. His popularity touches every corner of India and spreads far beyond its borders

Fans call him “Thalaivar,” a Tamil word that means “leader.” His screen presence, unique style, powerful dialogue delivery and charismatic personality have made him a cultural icon for over four decades.

Rajinikanth’s journey from a bus conductor in Bangalore to one of the highest paid actors in Asia is a story of determination, discipline and hard work.

His career includes blockbuster films across Tamil and Hindi cinema and he remains one of the most admired personalities in Indian entertainment.

This biography explores his early life, family background, film career, rise to superstardom, major movies, awards, political phase and personal beliefs.

Also Read: Shardul Thakur Bio, Cricket Career, Stats, IPL Teams, and Facts

Rajinikanth’s Biography

Early Life and Background

Rajinikanth was born as Shivaji Rao Gaekwad on December 12, 1950, in Bangalore, Karnataka, India. His family belonged to a middle class Marathi household.¹

His father Ramoji Rao Gaekwad worked as a police constable and his mother Jijabai was a homemaker.

He was the youngest of four siblings. His early childhood was simple but had its share of struggles due to limited family income. His mother passed away when he was very young which added emotional difficulty to his early years.

Rajinikanth studied at Gavipuram Government Kannada Model Primary School. He was an active and bright student who loved acting even at a young age. He took part in school plays and stage performances which slowly built his interest in drama and cinema.

After finishing school he did various small jobs to support his family. He worked as a carpenter and a coolie before joining the Bangalore Transport Service (BTS) as a bus conductor. His passion for acting continued and he often entertained passengers with his expressions and mimicry.

Journey to Acting

Rajinikanth’s dream of becoming an actor stayed alive even during his work as a bus conductor. He enrolled in the Madras Film Institute in 1973. This decision changed his life forever.

At the film institute he learned acting techniques, dialogue delivery and body language. His talent was noticed by people around him and soon he was given his first major opportunity.

The legendary Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander saw his performance and encouraged him to learn Tamil because he believed Rajinikanth had a bright future in Tamil cinema.

Rajinikanth followed this advice with complete dedication. He learned Tamil quickly which allowed him to enter the Tamil film industry with confidence.

What a glorious moment for India! 🇮🇳 Our Women in Blue have redefined courage, grace, and power inspiring generations to come. You’ve carried the tricolour across the world with fearless, unbreakable spirit. Many congratulations! 🙏🏻 History has been made. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/5AMjZu94QT

— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) November 3, 2025

Film Debut and Rise to Fame

Rajinikanth made his acting debut in Apoorva Raagangal (1975) directed by K. Balachander. Though he played a small role, his screen presence was strong enough to grab attention.²

In the initial years of his career he mostly played negative or supporting characters in films like Moondru Mudichu (1976) and Avargal (1977).

His ability to perform intense negative roles earned him popularity. However audiences also admired his style and charm which helped him shift into lead roles soon.

By the early 1980s Rajinikanth had transformed into a full-fledged superstar. Films like Billa (1980), Murattu Kaalai (1980), Nallavanukku Nallavan (1984) and Thillu Mullu (1981) made him the top choice for commercial cinema.

His unique mannerisms such as flipping cigarettes, wearing sunglasses in a stylish way and delivering punchy dialogues gave him a signature screen identity that no other actor in India had at that time.

Rajinikanth in Bollywood

Though Rajinikanth is primarily known for Tamil cinema he has also appeared in many Hindi films. His Bollywood journey began in the late 1970s and continued across several decades.

Some of his popular Bollywood films include:

• Andhaa Kaanoon (1983)

• Geraftaar (1985)

• Hum (1991)

• ChaalBaaz (1989)

• Uttar Dakshin (1987)

His performance in Hum (1991) is still remembered for its emotional depth and high energy. Even though he worked less in Bollywood compared to Tamil cinema he built a strong and loyal fan base in the Hindi-speaking audience.

Superstardom and Mass Appeal

By the 1990s and early 2000s Rajinikanth achieved unmatched superstardom. His films were not simply movie releases but events celebrated like festivals.³

People performed rituals, offered prayers and distributed sweets outside theatres to celebrate the release of a Rajinikanth movie.

Some blockbusters from this era include:

• Baashha (1995)

• Annamalai (1992)

• Muthu (1995)

• Padayappa (1999)

Baashha is especially considered a cult classic. His portrayal of a peaceful auto driver with a mysterious past became one of the most iconic roles in his career.

Muthu became a huge success in Japan where Rajinikanth became a popular foreign actor. This made him one of the few Indian actors to have an international fan base outside South Asia.

Major Films from the 2000s to Present

Rajinikanth continued to be a box office phenomenon in the 2000s and 2010s.

Some major films from this era include:

1. Chandramukhi (2005)

A psychological horror-comedy that became one of the biggest blockbusters in Tamil cinema.

2. Sivaji: The Boss (2007)

Directed by Shankar this film saw Rajinikanth in a stylish and powerful role. It was one of the costliest movies of its time and became a massive hit.

3. Enthiran (Robot) (2010)

This science fiction film set new technological milestones in Indian cinema. Rajinikanth amazed audiences with dual roles including the robotic character Chitti.

4. Kabali (2016)

In this film he played an ageing gangster seeking revenge and justice.

5. Kaala (2018)

A political drama with social themes directed by Pa Ranjith.

6. Petta (2019)

A nostalgic entertainer showing Rajinikanth in a lively style similar to his earlier films.

7. Jailer (2023)

A major hit that revived his commercial dominance in Indian cinema.

Rajinikanth continues to work in films and remains one of the most respected and famous actors in Indian history.

Also Read: Armaan Malik Bio, Family, Achievements, Personal Life and More

Acting Style and Signature Traits

Rajinikanth’s acting style is what sets him apart.⁴

Several factors contribute to his everlasting popularity:

1. Unique Mannerisms

His signature gestures such as flipping his sunglasses or tossing cigarettes make his scenes memorable.

2. Strong Dialogue Delivery

He delivers punch dialogues with confidence and style which often become viral across India.

3. Versatility

He can perform intense action scenes and emotional sequences with equal skill.

4. Simplicity in Real Life

Despite being a huge star he is known for his humble personality which increases his respect among fans.

Political Journey

Rajinikanth announced his entry into politics several times over the years. In 2017 he confirmed that he would start his own political party. However in 2020 he decided to withdraw from politics due to health reasons.

Although he did not officially become a political leader his influence on Tamil Nadu politics remains significant.

Personal Life

Rajinikanth married Latha Rangachari in 1981. They have two daughters:

• Aishwarya Rajinikanth

• Soundarya Rajinikanth

Both daughters are active in the entertainment industry. Rajinikanth is a deeply spiritual person and often visits the Himalayas for meditation and reflection.

His lifestyle is simple and disciplined. He wakes up early, practices yoga and avoids unnecessary luxuries.

Awards and Achievements

Rajinikanth has received numerous awards including:

• Padma Bhushan (2000)

• Padma Vibhushan (2016)

• Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2019)

• Filmfare Awards

• Tamil Nadu State Film Awards

• International recognition for his film Muthu in Japan

He is also considered one of the highest paid actors in Asia.

Statistics Table

Legacy and Influence

Rajinikanth’s influence extends far beyond the world of cinema. He is a cultural symbol representing determination, success and humility. Fans admire him not only for his acting but also for his approach to life.

He is loved for:

• Staying humble despite global fame

• Encouraging spirituality

• Helping people through philanthropy

• Inspiring millions with his life story

Rajinikanth’s rise from an ordinary bus conductor to a worldwide superstar remains one of the most inspiring journeys in Indian entertainment history.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth)

FAQ’s

1. What is Rajinikanth’s real name?

His real name is Shivaji Rao Gaekwad.

2. When was Rajinikanth born?

He was born on December 12, 1950.

3. What was Rajinikanth’s job before becoming an actor?

He worked as a bus conductor in Bangalore.

4. Which was Rajinikanth’s first movie?

His debut movie was Apoorva Raagangal (1975).

5. Is Rajinikanth also a Bollywood actor?

Yes he worked in several Hindi films like Andhaa Kaanoon (1983), Hum (1991) and ChaalBaaz (1989).

6. What is Rajinikanth most famous for?

He is famous for his unique style, dialogue delivery and charismatic screen presence.

7. Has Rajinikanth won national honours?

Yes he received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2019) and national awards like Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan.

8. How many movies has Rajinikanth acted in?

He has acted in over 150 films across multiple languages.

9. Is Rajinikanth still acting?

Yes he continues to work in major films.

10. What is Rajinikanth’s nickname?

Fans call him Thalaivar meaning “Leader”.

Also Read: David Harbour’s Bio, Career, Net Worth, Personal Life and More

1. en.wikipedia.org
2. oneindia
3. en.bharatpedia.org
4. britannica