Ganesh Chandrashekar (26)
Senior editor
Why I Like Rajinikanth
It’s been said a million times, but I like him for his timeless style and amazing humility. The man can light up the screen with his sheer presence, and he’s been a big part of my childhood. It’s hard to not like him!
Favorite Movie
Thalapathi! It might technically not be his best, but that was one hell of a movie. There’s a nostalgic factor too; it’s one of the first Rajini movies I remember watching.
Favorite Punch Dialogue
Ketta paiyan sir avan!
Aparna Chandar (39)
Music Teacher
Why I like Rajini
On screen, I like his style, energy and screen presence. There is something about him that makes us want to see him over and over again. There’s a ‘feel good’ factor about him. Off screen, I like his humility and ‘no image maintenance’ stand.
My favourite Rajini film and why
Annamalai. I relate to the heart of the movie — that hurt brings focus and motivation and makes you dream and do the impossible.
Favorite punch dialogue
Oru dadava sonna nooru dadava sonna madiri Padaiyappa
Shalini Vijayakumar (21)
Freelance Photographer
Why I like Rajinikanth
Honestly, I wish I knew. As a child, I used to love his heroism. But when I grew up, I realized there was something more about him that makes us admire him.
His style never dies. I was part of the crew of a docu-film titled For the Love of a Man on the actor’s fans. What better boon for a Thalaivar fan?
Favourite Movie
Annamalai. Because Malai Da Annamalai.
Favourite Rajini punch dialogue?
Podaa.. antha aandavane namma pakkam irukaan!
Anush (22)
Advertisement professional
Why I like Rajini
I like Rajini because he's a such an inspiration. From being a bus conductor to who he is today... that takes some dedication and effort. I love the way he carries himself off in public, event hough he's such a big star. I was lucky enough to meet him once and I was stunned by how simple he was. That was one of the best days of my life.
My favourite Rajini film and why
Thillu Mullu. Always makes me laugh.
Favorite punch dialogue
Haha, poda, andha aandavane namba pakkam irukan and Pera ketta udane chumma adhirudhu la
Name: Shasvathi Siva
Age: 23
Occupation: Copywriter
Why I like Rajinikanth
Liking ‘thalaivar’ came naturally to me. For someone who grew up in Chennai, I followed the herd and I was a happy fan. But love happened after I shifted to Mumbai. I went to watch Sivaji in a theatre there, and not one person hooted or even clapped when Rajini was shown on screen. That was unacceptable to me. Without any second thoughts, I stood up from my seat and started cheering. Within seconds, a few others joined me too. From like to love to now, Rajini is a demigod for me. I love this man for everything that he is. Rajini/Rajinikanth is an actor, Thalaivar/Superstar is an emotion.
My favourite Rajini film and why
Padayappa! I don't think the world of Tamil cinema can create such a power-packed movie ever again. The acting, storyline and Rajini’s screen presence and punch dialogues… the impact was brilliant.
Favourite punch dialogue
Poda! Andha aandavane namma pakkam irukkan
Name: Balaguru
Age: 26
Occupation: PR Manager
Why I like Rajinikanth
For me, he’s the all-time super star. On screen, Rajinikanth packs a combination of energy and style. The magic that that creates on screen is overwhelming. Today is a double treat for all his fans – we get to celebrate his birthday by watching his latest release.
My favourite Rajini film and why
Baasha. That one film that inspired all filmmakers.
Favourite punch dialogue
Yen vazhi thani vazhi …
