Rajinikanth is an outstanding character artiste: Mahendran

"Today’s generation don't really seem to know how talented an actor Rajinikanth is. They seem to know only about his stylishness."

Director Mahendran is very happy that Pa. Ranjith took his Mullum Malarum as inspiration for shaping Kabali’s character.

In a >recent interview with The Hindu , Ranjith had mentioned that Rajinikanth’s character in Kabali was closest to Kali, the character he played in Mahendran’s Mullum Malarum . “Like everybody else, I’m waiting to see Kabali to share my opinions, but I am pleased to know that Ranjith isn’t making a usual Rajini film,”

Mahendran says. “Today’s generation don't really seem to know how talented an actor Rajinikanth is. They seem to know only about his stylishness.”

The director is peeved that we haven’t seen more of the actor in Rajinikanth, but says it’s never too late. “Only I know how easily he pulled off Kali’s character. Easy-a panniduvaaru . He’s an outstanding character artiste.”

Rajinkanth and Mahendra. Photo: The Hindu Archives