If you had tried getting tea at any of the shops near Albert theatre on Friday morning, you might have been unsuccessful. For, there was no milk. All the packets were at the theatre – with delirious fans going overboard by indulging in elaborate paal abhisekham to Superstar Rajinikanth’s posters in celebration of Kochadaiiyaan ’s release.
A Rajini film release is no ordinary day. For, the FDFS (first day first show) is a phenomenon that’s considered quite an experience much beyond the actual movie. There’re firecrackers, confetti and a whole lot of celebration that it could well resemble a thiruvizha or a local festival.
When a hysterical fan broke into an impromptu dance, with the accompanying musicians providing ample support on the percussion, the crowd was in raptures, with most of them capturing the scene on their mobile phones. Celebrations in many parts of the city started several hours before the actual start of the first show.
Kumaran S. a die-hard Rajini fan, was at Albert theatre, says, “I ensured that I got a ticket for the first show. There’s no way I will miss watching Thalaivar on screen on a film’s release day itself.” Albert, a cinema popular with Superstar fans, having screened many a Rajini film in the past, wore a festive look with fans making a beeline for tickets and reactions.
But the question on everybody’s minds was – would audiences accept, and embrace, an animated version of their demi-god? With the release getting delayed, the frenzy was expected to be somewhat muted.
“It wasn’t the same,” some fans said.
Even at Kasi theatre in K.K. Nagar, which has gained reputation as the best single screen to watch a star's film, it wasn't expected to be as big as the actor’s last release, Endhiran .
But watching the film on release day was an experience that few would want to miss. “This is the first big 3D film being screened at Kasi theatre and the demand has been huge,” said a member of the staff.
Just like any Superstar film, the first ten minutes couldn’t be heard at all, thanks to the all the wolf whistles that drowned out all the dialogue.
And then came Rajinikanth, galloping on a horse… and all hell broke loose. Some even broke their 3D glasses and threw it towards the screens. When Kochadaiiyaan broke into a graceful ‘dance of rage’, it was another opportunity for fans to go mad.
Animation or not, it looks like just the name Rajinikanth is enough to make all his fans go into a tizzy.
