Main image via www.inuth.com

He has graced our screens with memorable roles in Padaiyappa, Kabali and Chandramukhi—but how much do you know about Superstar Rajinikanth?

Read more to find out!

#1 He had a hard childhood

Image via www.dnaindia.com

Rajinikanth’s mother passed away when he was five years old and his family went through difficult times as a result. But he never gave up—as a young man, he took up odd jobs and before he got his big break in the film industry, he was working as a bus conductor.

#2 He played baddies in his early roles

Image via https://scroll.in

Did you know that for the first two years of his career, he mostly played baddies? His characters included an abusive husband, a womaniser, a rapist, an adulterer, and so on. He has showcased his vast acting range through his diverse roles.

#3 He’s multi-talented

Image via www.indiatoday.in

You must meet high standards when people call you a superstar. Besides acting, he has also worked as a screenwriter, playback singer, and producer. He’s also very involved in politics, and plans to run in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections.

#4 He has starred in a Hollywood movie before

Image via www.amborish.com

Rajinikanth starred in the 1988 production Bloodstone as Shyam Sabu, a taxi driver who gets caught in a fight for a precious magical stone. It’s also the only Hollywood movie he has acted in to date!

#5 At one point, he was the second highest paid actor in Asia

 
Image via www.imdb.com

He was paid 26 crores (RM15.4 million) for his role in Sivaji back in 2007, making him the highest paid Asian actor after Jackie Chan that year.

#6 The Indian government has recognised his contribution to acting

Image via www.indianexpress.com

With a career that has spanned decades, it’s no surprise that Rajinikanth’s success was noticed by the Indian government. He was awarded with the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, back in 2016 for his contributions.

#7 He may be 67 years old, but he’s not slowing down

This month, he returns in the sci-fi movie 2.0, the sequel to the commercially successful Enthiran. Reprising his role as Vaseegaran and Chitti, he’ll be duking it out against enemies such as Akshay Kumar’s character, Dr Richards. The movie is already making waves because of its especially high budget and is touted to be one of the biggest releases this year in India.

Excited to know more? Check out the teaser trailer below:

You can also watch a special behind the scenes footage here:

DMY CREATION SDN BHD. (DMY) is the sole movie distributor for Superstar Rajinikanth’s movie Kalaa and now 2.0, breaking records by premiering on 2,000 screens nationwide starting TODAY! Experience the movie in 3D! You won’t want to miss it.