How is superstar Rajinikanth relevant even at the age of 74?
Superstar Rajinikanth, at 74, continues to dominate the Tamil film industry with record-breaking box office numbers and an unwavering connect with the audience. Despite changing trends and changing interests, his films like Jailer and Vettaiyaan prove that he still remains a force to be reckoned with.
Rajinikanth’s journey from an ordinary bus conductor to becoming a superstar of Tamil cinema is a story that is timeless. From his successful roles in Moondru Mudichu and Arilirunthu Arubaathu Varai to commercial entertainers like Billa and Muthu and his recent successes with 2.0 and Jailer, which are among the top Tamil grossers of all time, his career is testament to hard work, adaptability. stands as. And a deeper connection with the audience.
Spanning more than five decades, Rajinikanth has not only given a new definition to stardom But has given record breaking blockbuster films continuously. With a worldwide gross of Rs 250 crore in 2024, Vettaiyan’s enduring hold at the box office remains unmatched. At 74, Rajinikanth’s films promise openings equal to those of younger stars, and his upcoming releases, Jailer 2 and Coolie, are already generating massive anticipation.
So, how does Rajinikanth maintain his dominance over the ever-evolving industry? Is it just luck, or is there something more to the superstar magic?
Adapting to changing trends
Rajinikanth has maintained his relevance Constantly adapting to the tastes of different generations. In the 1980s, he played episodic ‘angry young man’ roles, often reflecting the struggles of the masses. His iconic performances in films like Baasha, Padayappa and Annamalai cemented his place as a man among the masses.
As cinema evolved, so did Rajinikanth’s tastes. The 2000s saw him transitioning from characters with deep nuances to ones with mass appeal. Films like Shivaji: The Boss highlighted issues of corruption, which resonated with audiences through relatable conflicts. His recent ventures, like Kabali, Kaala and Jailer, adapt the same emotional core to a modern setup. For example, in Jailer, Rajinikanth plays a father and grandfather who executes action sequences with intelligence rather than brute strength – a refreshing departure from traditional heroism.
His willingness to experiment is evident in films like Endhiran (sci-fi action) and 2.0 (a visual spectacle), proving his dedication towards staying relevant. Despite his age, Rajinikanth has never shied away from pushing boundaries, ensuring that his audiences experience something new every time.
balancing options
Rajinikanth’s filmography is a masterclass in balancing mass appeal commercial cinema with a social message. He has given hits like Padayappa and Chandramukhi, and also worked with Baba on spiritual and philosophical subjects. His willingness to embrace diverse genres – from horror-comedy thrillers like Chandramukhi to dramas like Kochadaiiyaan and Enthiran – has kept his career dynamic.
Even his recent projects showcase his versatility. Vettaiyan, a crime thriller, and Jailer, a mass entertainer, underline their ability to captivate the audience with very different stories. Despite facing criticism, films like Lingaa, Kabali and Darbar demonstrated his ability to portray deep emotional arcs, while Petta brought back his old style of charm and action. This blend of experimentation and mainstream appeal ensures that Rajinikanth remains a crowd-puller.
strategic cooperation
Rajinikanth’s greatest strength is his collaboration with young visionary filmmakers. After mixed reactions for films like Kochadaiiyaan and Lingaa, he teamed up with Pa Ranjith for socially conscious films, Kabali and Kaala. Directors Karthik Subbaraj with Petta and Nelson Dilipkumar with Jailer brought new storytelling styles and contemporary sensibilities to their projects.
These partnerships generate excitement among fans and critics alike. The audience eagerly waits to see how each filmmaker will present Rajinikanth on screen. Her upcoming collaboration with Lokesh Kanagaraj for Coolie has already created a buzz, with many speculating that it could be the first Rs 1,000 crore grosser in Tamil cinema. Additionally, the planned sequel, Jailer 2, is set to build on the legacy of its predecessor, promising both narrative depth and box office fireworks.
man of the people
What really sets Rajinikanth apart is his connect with the common man. He is a symbol of hope and relatability, as his characters often represent the struggles of the masses.
Rajinikanth’s unique charisma as well as his trademark behavior and punchlines have made him an icon. His style – whether in speaking dialogue or simple body language – is instantly recognizable and admirable. Even in his early days, director K Balachander recognized the strength of Rajinikanth’s eyes and natural flair, which set him apart from the typical white, conventional heroes of that era.
The humility of the superstar further strengthens this bond with the public. Despite his massive success, he remains down-to-earth, is often seen in simple attire, and talks openly about his spiritual outlook on life. His emphasis on family values, hard work and simplicity makes him an icon beyond the screen.
This universal appeal transcends boundaries. Rajinikanth’s constant efforts to collaborate with talents from other industries have earned him popularity not only in Tamil cinema but across India. Their box office market also extends to Telugu, Hindi, Kannada and Malayalam audiences.
Staying relevant across generations
In an industry where seasoned actors often struggle to remain relevant, Rajinikanth challenges the odds. He walks the fine line between stardom and reinvention, while maintaining his ‘superstar’ aura while evolving to meet contemporary demands. He never let his roles fall into the monotonous realm, constantly surprising fans with unexpected choices and collaborations.
His upcoming projects Jailer 2 and Coolie are already hailed as potential milestones for Tamil cinema.
Rajinikanth’s relevance at the age of 74 is no coincidence. This is the result of adaptation, experimentation and their tireless efforts to connect with their audience. His diverse filmography, strategic collaborations and ability to influence the masses has kept him at the pinnacle of stardom for more than five decades.
As the Tamil film industry eagerly awaits his next film, one thing is clear: superstar Rajinikanth is not only relevant – he is timeless.
