Rajinikanth at 75: Celebrating the icon through his timeless classics and modern hits

December 12, 2025, marks a momentous milestone in Indian cinema—the 75th birth anniversary of Rajinikanth, affectionately called Thalaivar. His life story, from Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, a bus conductor in Bengaluru, to becoming one of the most revered superstars in Asian cinema, is nothing short of legendary. More than his films, it is his humility, style, and unmatched charisma that have created a phenomenon followed by millions across the world.

As Rajinikanth celebrates his diamond jubilee, it becomes an occasion to reflect on the films that defined his extraordinary journey. Though narrowing down his vast body of work to just a few titles is nearly impossible, the following selection captures the depth of his talent—showcasing the intense performer, the mass-action hero, and the visionary entertainer.

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1. Mullum Malarum (1978): The Rise of an Actor

Often regarded as the film that proved Rajinikanth’s acting prowess, Mullum Malarum featured him as Kali, a stubborn yet deeply loving winch operator. The film offered a layered portrayal of emotion, vulnerability, and anger, earning him critical acclaim. It also gifted fans one of his most iconic lines from director J. Mahendran: “Ketta paiyan sir indha Kaali” (“He’s a bad boy, sir, this Kaali”). This was the performance that announced Rajinikanth as a serious actor beyond his stylish villain roles.

2. Thalapathi (1991): The Power of Subtlety and Strength

Directed by Mani Ratnam, Thalapathi reimagines the legendary Karna–Duryodhana relationship from the Mahabharata, placing it in a modern crime setting. Rajinikanth plays Surya, an abandoned child who grows into a righteous yet feared leader. His performance was deeply emotional and restrained, shining alongside Malayalam superstar Mammootty. The film remains one of Rajinikanth’s most celebrated dramatic roles.

3. Baashha (1995): The Birth of a Superstar Persona

If one film cemented Rajinikanth’s pan-Indian stardom, it was Baashha. He plays Manickam, a humble auto driver with a hidden, violent past. The transformation sequences, punch dialogues, and stylised action scenes created a template that influenced decades of Tamil commercial cinema. Even today, lines from the film are quoted by fans across generations.

4. Padayappa (1999): The Ultimate Rajinikanth Entertainer

A blend of drama, philosophy, action, and family emotions, Padayappa became a massive blockbuster. The film showcased Rajinikanth’s iconic swagger, memorable dialogues, and powerful screen presence. Equally unforgettable was Ramya Krishnan’s portrayal of Neelambari—one of Indian cinema’s most iconic antagonists. Its recent theatrical re-release for Rajinikanth’s 75th birthday is proof of the film’s enduring popularity.

5. Enthiran (Robot) (2010): Rajinikanth Reinvented

Shankar’s ambitious sci-fi film introduced Rajinikanth to a new generation. As Dr. Vaseegaran and the rogue robot Chitti, Rajinikanth delivered a dual performance that showcased his versatility and comic timing. Enthiran set new benchmarks in Indian VFX and became a global hit, proving that Rajinikanth could reinvent himself even decades into his career.

Rajinikanth’s Modern Hits: A New Era of Superstardom

Beyond his classics, Rajinikanth continues to dominate OTT platforms and theatres with high-octane action films and compelling dramas.

Coolie – Prime Video

Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, Coolie follows Rajinikanth as a gold smuggler seeking justice after his friend’s murder. The film pits him against a powerful antagonist played by Nagarjuna, with Aamir Khan making his Tamil debut. Stylish, fast-paced, and gripping, Coolie adds a modern flair to Rajinikanth’s legacy.

Jailer (2023) – Prime Video

One of the biggest blockbusters of his career, Jailer stars Rajinikanth as a retired jailer drawn back into the dark world of crime when his son is kidnapped. The film combines emotion, style, and action, with Rajinikanth delivering one of his most charismatic performances of the decade.

Annaatthe (2021) – Netflix

A heartfelt family drama, Annaatthe showcases Rajinikanth as a doting elder brother who will go to any extent to protect his sister. The emotional core of the story, coupled with action and festive music, made it a crowd favourite.

Vettaiyan: The Hunter – Prime Video

Directed by TJ Gnanavel, Vettaiyan presents Rajinikanth as a fearless supercop caught at the center of a high-profile investigation. With an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, and Manju Warrier, the film blends action, mystery, and intense drama.

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A Legacy That Transcends Cinema

As Rajinikanth turns 75, his legacy is not just in the films he has acted in—but in the millions of lives he has inspired. His humility, philosophy, and hard work continue to set an example for generations. From a conductor to a cultural phenomenon, Rajinikanth’s story remains one of Indian cinema’s greatest narratives.