Rajinikanth (born 12 December 1950), originally named Shivaji Rao Gaikwad, is an Indian actor, film producer and screenwriter who primarily works in Tamil cinema. Widely known by the title “Superstar”, he is regarded as one of the most influential and commercially successful actors in Indian cinema. His career spans more than five decades and includes films in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali and English.

Rajinikanth began his acting career in 1975 with the Tamil film Apoorva Raagangal, directed by K. Balachander. Initially, he appeared in supporting and antagonistic roles before establishing himself as a leading actor through films such as Bhuvana Oru Kelvi Kuri (1977), Mullum Malarum (1978), Billa (1980) and Thillu Mullu (1981).

He achieved widespread popularity through commercial successes including Thalapathi (1991), Annaamalai (1992), Baashha (1995), Muthu (1995), Padayappa (1999), Chandramukhi (2005), Sivaji: The Boss (2007), Enthiran (2010), Kabali (2016), 2.0 (2018), Petta (2019), Jailer (2023), Vettaiyan (2024) and Coolie (2025).

In addition to acting, Rajinikanth has worked as a film producer and screenwriter. He has received several prestigious honours, including the Padma Bhushan in 2000, the Padma Vibhushan in 2016 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2019, presented in 2021. These honours recognise his significant contribution to Indian cinema.

Beyond his film career, Rajinikanth is known for his distinctive screen presence, dialogue delivery, stylised mannerisms and large international fan following. His influence extends beyond Tamil cinema, particularly among audiences in South Asia and other regions with a strong Indian film culture.

Early Life and Family Background

Rajinikanth was born as Shivaji Rao Gaikwad on 12 December 1950 in Bangalore, in the then Mysore State of India (present-day Bengaluru, Karnataka). He was born into a Marathi-speaking family.

His father, Ramoji Rao Gaekwad, worked as a police constable, while his mother, Jijabai, was a homemaker. He was the youngest of four children and grew up with two elder brothers and an elder sister.

Rajinikanth experienced financial difficulties during his childhood. His mother died when he was nine years old, an event that significantly affected his early life.

He attended Gavipuram Government Kannada Model Primary School in Bangalore and later studied at Acharya Pathasala Public School. During his school years, he developed an interest in acting and participated in theatrical performances.

He was also associated with the Ramakrishna Math, where he received exposure to Hindu philosophy, spiritual teachings and cultural activities. His involvement in stage performances helped develop his interest in acting.

Education

Rajinikanth completed his schooling in Bangalore. During his education, he became increasingly interested in theatre and performing arts.

After finishing school, he did not immediately pursue a conventional academic career. Instead, he worked in several jobs to support himself and his family.

In 1973, he joined the Madras Film Institute, now known as the M.G.R. Government Film and Television Training Institute, to study acting.

His admission to the institute was supported financially by his friend and former colleague Raj Bahadur, who encouraged him to pursue his ambition of becoming an actor.

It was during his training that he attracted the attention of Tamil film director K. Balachander, who recognised his acting potential and offered him an opportunity in cinema.

Rajinikanth Biography, Age, Height, Movies, Wife, Family, Career and Awards

Bio/Wiki
Real Name	Shivaji Rao Gaekwad
Nickname(s)	Rajinikanth, Thalaiva, Superstar
Profession(s)	Actor, Producer, Screenplay Writer, Philanthropist
Physical Stats & More
Height (approx.)	5′ 8″ (173 cm)
Weight (approx.)	75 Kg (165 lbs)
Body Measurements (approx.)	– Chest: 40 Inches – Waist: 33 Inches – Biceps: 12 Inches
Eye Colour	Dark Brown
Hair Colour	White (Semi-bald)
Personal Life
Date of Birth	12 December 1950 (Tuesday)
Age (as of 2026)	76 Years
Birthplace	Bengaluru, Mysore State (now Karnataka), India
Zodiac sign	Sagittarius
Signature
Nationality	Indian
Hometown	Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
School	• Acharya Paathshala in Basavanagudi, Bangalore • Vivekananda Balaka Sangha
College	M.G.R Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu
Educational Qualification	Diploma in Acting DC
Debut	Tamil Film: Apoorva Raagangal (1975) Kannada Film: Katha Sangama (1976) Telugu Film: Anthuleni Katha (1976) Bollywood Film: Andha Kanoon (1983)
Family	Father– Ramoji Rao Gaekwad (Worked as a police constable) Mother– Jijabai (Homemaker) Brothers– Satyanarayana Rao (Elder), Nageshwara Rao (Elder) Sister– Aswath Balubhai (Elder)
Religion	Hinduism
Address	A bungalow in Poes Garden, Chennai
Hobbies	Travelling, Reading, Gardening
Awards/Honours	2000: Padma Bhushan 2014: Centenary Award for Indian Film Personality of the Year 2016: Padma Vibhushan 2021: On 1 April 2021, the Government of India announced the 51st Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Rajinikanth.
Controversies	• In 2014, Rajinikanth got the stay from the Madras High Court to stop the release of Bollywood film ‘Main Hoon Rajinikanth.’ Later, the name of the film was changed to ‘Main Hoon Part-Time Killer.’ • In 2015, the Madras High Court issued a notice to Rajinikanth, on a plea by a financier to take action against the director, Kasthuri Raja, father of actor Dhanush. The financier also claimed that he gave money to Kasthuri Raja after he had used Rajinikanth’s name. He wanted Rajinikanth to ‘initiate action against his relative for misusing his name without his consent.’ • In 2017, Lyca Productions announced that Rajinikanth will unveil a housing scheme by its charity wing ‘Gnanam Foundation‘ for displaced Tamils in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. After this announcement, the pro-Tamil protested against Rajinikanth’s visit. • In March 2024, Rajinikanth drew backlash for reportedly asking his house help to step aside while posing for paparazzi at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding event in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The Times of India
Favourites
Food	Masala Dosa
Actor(s)	Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Sylvester Stallone
Actresses	Rekha, Hema Malini
Film	Veera Kesari (Kannada)
Musician	Ilayaraja
Colour	Black
Book(s)	Ponniyin Selvan by Kalki, Amma Vanthal by T. Janakiraman
Politician	Lee Kuan Yew (Former Prime Minister of Singapore)
Social Activist	Anna Hazare
Sport	Cricket
Destination	The Himalayas
Girls, Affairs and More
Marital Status	Married
Affairs/Girlfriends	Silk Smitha (Actress) Latha (Producer, Singer)
Wife/Spouse	Latha (M.1981-present)
Marriage Date	26 February 1981
Children	Son– None Daughters– Aishwarya (born in 1982), Soundarya (born in 1984)
Style Quotient
Cars Collection	• Premier Padmini Fiat • Chevrolet Tavera • Toyota Innova • Ambassador • Honda Civic • Lamborghini Urus • BMW X7 Note: In September 2023, Kalanithi Maran, the chairman of Sun Pictures production house, celebrated the success of the film ‘Jailer’ by presenting Rajinikanth with a BMW X7 as a gift. He brought both a BMW X7 and a BMW i7 EV to Rajinikanth’s residence and asked him to choose between the two. Rajinikanth ultimately opted for the BMW X7. Hindustan Times
Bikes Collection	Suzuki Hayabusa, Suzuki Intruder M1800 RZ
Money Factor
Salary	Rs. 40-45 crore/film
Net Worth	Rs. 400 Crore (as of 2024)

Career

1975–1979: Film Debut and Early Career

Rajinikanth made his acting debut in 1975 with the Tamil drama film Apoorva Raagangal, directed by K. Balachander. He played a supporting role in the film, which starred Kamal Haasan and Srividya.

His performance attracted attention, and he subsequently appeared in several Tamil films, often portraying antagonists and supporting characters.

During his early career, he worked with established filmmakers and actors and gradually developed a distinctive acting style.

Some of his notable films from this period included:

• Moondru Mudichu (1976)
• Avargal (1977)
• 16 Vayathinile (1977)
• Bhuvana Oru Kelvi Kuri (1977)
• Mullum Malarum (1978)
• Aval Appadithan (1978)
• Thappu Thalangal (1978)
• Ninaithale Inikkum (1979)
• Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai (1979)

His performance in Mullum Malarum, directed by J. Mahendran, received critical appreciation and established him as a serious performer capable of portraying emotionally complex characters.

During this period, he also appeared in films in Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

1980–1989: Rise to Stardom

The 1980s marked an important period in Rajinikanth’s career. He increasingly appeared in leading roles and established himself as one of the major stars of South Indian cinema.

In 1980, he starred in Billa, a Tamil action film directed by R. Krishnamurthy. The film was a remake of Amitabh Bachchan’s Hindi film Don (1978). Rajinikanth portrayed dual characters, which helped establish his image as an action hero.

He continued his success with films such as Thee (1981), Thillu Mullu (1981), Ranga (1982), Moondru Mugam (1982), Thanga Magan (1983), Nallavanukku Nallavan (1984), Padikkadavan (1985), Mr. Bharath (1986), Velaikaran (1987), Manithan (1987), Dharmathin Thalaivan (1988) and Mappillai (1989).

In 1983, he made his Hindi film debut with Andhaa Kaanoon, directed by T. Rama Rao. The film also featured Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini.

He subsequently appeared in several Hindi films, including Geraftaar (1985), Bewafai (1985) and ChaalBaaz (1989).

His ability to perform in action, comedy and dramatic roles contributed to his growing popularity across different Indian film industries.

1990–1999: Commercial Success and National Popularity

The 1990s established Rajinikanth as one of the most commercially successful actors in Indian cinema.

In 1991, he appeared in Mani Ratnam’s Thalapathi, inspired by the friendship between Karna and Duryodhana from the Mahabharata. He portrayed Surya, a character whose emotional depth received considerable critical appreciation.

He subsequently collaborated with director Suresh Krissna on several successful films, including Annaamalai (1992) and Baashha (1995).

Baashha became one of the most influential action films in Tamil cinema. Rajinikanth portrayed Manikkam, an ordinary auto-rickshaw driver with a hidden criminal past. The film became a major commercial success and strengthened his image as a mass entertainer.

Other notable releases during this period included:

• Mannan (1992)
• Uzhaippali (1993)
• Ejamaan (1993)
• Veera (1994)
• Muthu (1995)
• Arunachalam (1997)
• Padayappa (1999)

The 1995 film Muthu, directed by K. S. Ravikumar, gained international popularity after its Japanese release and developed a dedicated following in Japan.

In 1999, Padayappa became another major success. Rajinikanth portrayed the titular character, whose conflict with Neelambari, played by Ramya Krishnan, became one of the film’s most memorable elements.

2000–2009: Return to Cinema and Major Blockbusters

After the release of Padayappa, Rajinikanth took a break from acting and later returned with the film Baba in 2002. He wrote the screenplay and played the lead role in the production.

In 2005, he returned to mainstream commercial success with Chandramukhi, directed by P. Vasu. The film became one of the major hits in Tamil cinema and ran successfully in theatres for an extended period.

In 2007, he starred in Sivaji: The Boss, directed by S. Shankar. The film featured Rajinikanth as Sivaji, a software engineer who returns to India and attempts to establish a charitable educational institution.

The film was a major commercial success and became an important milestone in his career.

In 2008, he appeared in Kuselan, a Tamil film based on the Malayalam film Katha Parayumbol. He also appeared in its Telugu version, Kathanayakudu.

In 2009, he starred in Enthiran, which was released in 2010 after production work continued beyond the decade. The film became one of the most ambitious projects in Indian cinema at the time.

2010–2019: Science Fiction Films and International Recognition

Rajinikanth entered another successful phase with Enthiran (2010), directed by S. Shankar. He portrayed two principal characters: scientist Dr. Vaseegaran and the humanoid robot Chitti.

The film received widespread attention for its visual effects, technical production and commercial success.

In 2011, he made a guest appearance in the Hindi science fiction film Ra.One, starring Shah Rukh Khan.

In 2014, he appeared in Kochadaiiyaan, an animated motion-capture film directed by his daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth.

He also starred in Lingaa (2014), directed by K. S. Ravikumar.

In 2016, he appeared in Kabali, directed by Pa. Ranjith. He portrayed a Malaysian-based Tamil gangster and union leader. The film received considerable attention before its release and became a major box-office attraction.

In 2018, he appeared in two significant productions:

Kaala: Directed by Pa. Ranjith, the film explored the struggles of marginalised communities in Mumbai. Rajinikanth played Karikaalan, a community leader.

2.0: Directed by S. Shankar, the film was a science fiction action production and a sequel to Enthiran. Rajinikanth returned as Dr. Vaseegaran and Chitti, alongside Akshay Kumar and Amy Jackson.

In 2019, he starred in Petta, directed by Karthik Subbaraj. The film featured him in an action-oriented role that received attention from audiences and fans.

2020–2024: Darbar, Annaatthe, Jailer and Vettaiyan

In 2020, Rajinikanth appeared in Darbar, directed by A. R. Murugadoss. He played Aaditya Arunasalam, a police commissioner investigating a criminal network.

In 2021, he starred in Annaatthe, directed by Siva. The film featured an ensemble cast including Nayanthara, Keerthy Suresh and Khushbu.

In 2023, he returned with Jailer, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. He portrayed Muthuvel Pandian, a retired jailer who becomes involved in a conflict with a criminal organisation.

The film featured Ramya Krishnan, Vinayakan, Tamannaah Bhatia, Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar and Jackie Shroff in important roles. It became one of the major commercial successes of Tamil cinema in 2023.

In 2024, he appeared in Lal Salaam, directed by his daughter Aishwarya Rajinikanth, in an extended cameo as Moideen Bhai.

Later that year, he starred in Vettaiyan, directed by T. J. Gnanavel. The film featured Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati and Manju Warrier.

Rajinikanth portrayed Athiyan, a police officer whose investigation raises questions about law enforcement, justice and extrajudicial encounters.

Read More: Nana Patekar | Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

2025–Present: Coolie, Jailer 2 and Upcoming Projects

In 2025, Rajinikanth starred in Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. The action thriller featured an ensemble cast including Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir, Sathyaraj and Shruti Haasan. Rajinikanth portrayed Deva, a former coolie union leader involved in a major criminal conflict.

In 2026, he returned as Muthuvel Pandian in Jailer 2, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. The film is a sequel to the 2023 hit Jailer and features several returning cast members alongside new additions. It was released in theatres on 15 October 2026.

Rajinikanth has also been associated with the upcoming film Dharman, directed by Ashwath Marimuthu and produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International in association with other production partners. He is reported to portray a doctor in the film.

In August 2026, Rajinikanth confirmed that he and Kamal Haasan would work together in another film produced by Red Giant Movies. The project represents a significant reunion of the two veteran actors, who previously appeared together in several films during their early careers.

Production and Writing Career

Apart from acting, Rajinikanth has also been involved in film production and screenplay development.

He has worked as a producer through his association with production companies and family-related film ventures.

His notable production and writing-related projects include:

Film	Year	Contribution
Valli	1993	Story
Baba	2002	Story and screenplay
Kochadaiiyaan	2014	Creative involvement

He has also contributed to the development of stories and characters in several films in which he has appeared.

Personal Life

Marriage and Wife

Rajinikanth married Latha Rangachari on 26 February 1981 in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.

Latha is an Indian film producer, playback singer and educational entrepreneur. She met Rajinikanth while interviewing him for her college magazine. Their relationship developed during his early years as a leading actor.

Latha has played an important role in supporting Rajinikanth’s personal and professional life. She has also been associated with educational and charitable activities.

The couple has two daughters, Aishwarya Rajinikanth and Soundarya Rajinikanth.

Children

Rajinikanth has two daughters:

Aishwarya Rajinikanth: His elder daughter, Aishwarya, is a film director and playback singer. She has directed films including 3 (2012), Vai Raja Vai (2015) and Lal Salaam (2024). She was previously married to actor Dhanush.

Soundarya Rajinikanth: His younger daughter, Soundarya, is a film director, producer and graphic designer. She directed Kochadaiiyaan (2014) and Velaiilla Pattadhari 2 (2017).

Both daughters have worked in the Tamil entertainment industry.

Family Background

Rajinikanth belongs to a Marathi-speaking family with roots in Maharashtra. He grew up in Bangalore and later established his career in the Tamil film industry.

Family Member	Relationship
Ramoji Rao Gaekwad	Father
Jijabai	Mother
Satyanarayana Rao	Elder Brother
Nageshwara Rao	Elder Brother
Aswath Balubhai	Elder Sister
Latha Rajinikanth	Wife
Aishwarya Rajinikanth	Elder Daughter
Soundarya Rajinikanth	Younger Daughter
Dhanush	Former Son-in-law

Awards and Honours

Rajinikanth has received numerous awards and honours for his contribution to Indian cinema.

His achievements include several national civilian honours, film awards and lifetime achievement recognitions.

National Honours

Padma Bhushan (2000): The Government of India awarded Rajinikanth the Padma Bhushan in recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema.

Padma Vibhushan (2016): He received India’s second-highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan, for his contribution to the arts.

Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2019): In April 2021, the Government of India announced Rajinikanth as the recipient of the 51st Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2019. The award was presented in October 2021.

Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award (2025): He received the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award at the 56th International Film Festival of India in recognition of his contribution to cinema.

Major Film Awards

Year	Award	Category / Film
1984	Filmfare Awards South	Best Actor – Tamil, Nallavanukku Nallavan
1984	Tamil Nadu State Film Awards	Best Actor – Nallavanukku Nallavan
1984	Kalaimamani	Contribution to Tamil cinema
2000	Padma Bhushan	Civilian Honour
2014	Indian Film Personality of the Year	International Film Festival of India
2016	Padma Vibhushan	Civilian Honour
2019	Dadasaheb Phalke Award	Lifetime Contribution to Indian Cinema
2025	Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award	Contribution to Cinema

Philanthropy and Social Activities

Rajinikanth has been associated with various charitable activities and social initiatives throughout his career.

He has contributed to relief efforts during natural disasters and has supported several charitable causes.

His family has also been associated with educational and social welfare activities through institutions and organisations.

Although he generally maintains a private approach to philanthropy, his charitable contributions have occasionally been reported in Indian media.

Political Views and Public Statements

Rajinikanth has attracted considerable political attention because of his popularity and public statements on Tamil Nadu politics.

In December 2017, he announced his intention to enter politics and establish a political party. He discussed his political ambitions and outlined his views on governance and public administration.

However, on 29 December 2020, he announced that he would not launch a political party, citing health-related concerns and the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

He subsequently continued to comment on selected political and social issues but did not establish the political party he had previously announced.

Religion and Spirituality

Rajinikanth is known for his interest in spirituality, meditation and religious practices.

He has frequently spoken about his spiritual beliefs and the influence of meditation on his personal life.

He has visited religious and spiritual centres in India, including Himalayan pilgrimage destinations. His interest in spirituality has been discussed in interviews and media reports.

Popularity and Cultural Influence

Rajinikanth is one of the most recognisable figures in Indian popular culture. His distinctive mannerisms, dialogue delivery, action sequences and screen presence have influenced generations of actors and filmmakers.

His popularity is particularly strong in Tamil Nadu, but he also has a significant following in other Indian states and internationally.

The term “Superstar” has become closely associated with his public identity. His films frequently receive extensive attention upon release, with fans organising celebrations, special screenings and community events.

His film Muthu also developed a notable following in Japan, where he became known among audiences as a major Indian film star.

Selected Filmography

The following is a selection of Rajinikanth’s notable film appearances.

Year	Film	Language	Role
1975	Apoorva Raagangal	Tamil	Pandiyan
1976	Moondru Mudichu	Tamil	Prasad
1977	Bhuvana Oru Kelvi Kuri	Tamil	Sampath
1978	Mullum Malarum	Tamil	Kali
1979	Ninaithale Inikkum	Tamil	Deepak
1980	Billa	Tamil	Billa / Rajappa
1981	Thillu Mullu	Tamil	Chandran
1982	Moondru Mugam	Tamil	Alex Pandian / Arun / John
1983	Andhaa Kaanoon	Hindi	Vijay Kumar Singh
1984	Nallavanukku Nallavan	Tamil	Manickam
1985	Geraftaar	Hindi	Hussain
1986	Mr. Bharath	Tamil	Bharath
1987	Manithan	Tamil	Raja
1989	ChaalBaaz	Hindi	Jaggu
1991	Thalapathi	Tamil	Surya
1992	Annaamalai	Tamil	Annamalai
1995	Baashha	Tamil	Manikkam
1995	Muthu	Tamil	Muthu
1997	Arunachalam	Tamil	Arunachalam
1999	Padayappa	Tamil	Padayappa
2002	Baba	Tamil	Baba
2005	Chandramukhi	Tamil	Dr. Saravanan / Vettaiyan
2007	Sivaji: The Boss	Tamil	Sivaji
2010	Enthiran	Tamil	Dr. Vaseegaran / Chitti
2014	Lingaa	Tamil	Lingeswaran / Raja Lingeswaran
2016	Kabali	Tamil	Kabaleeswaran
2018	Kaala	Tamil	Karikaalan
2018	2.0	Tamil	Dr. Vaseegaran / Chitti
2019	Petta	Tamil	Kaali
2020	Darbar	Tamil	Aaditya Arunasalam
2021	Annaatthe	Tamil	Kaalaiyan
2023	Jailer	Tamil	Muthuvel Pandian
2024	Lal Salaam	Tamil	Moideen Bhai
2024	Vettaiyan	Tamil	Athiyan
2025	Coolie	Tamil	Deva
2026	Jailer 2	Tamil	Muthuvel Pandian