Rajinikanth (born 12 December 1950) is an Indian actor and one of the biggest stars in the history of Indian cinema. Known as “Thalaivar” (the leader), he rose from a job as a bus conductor in Bengaluru to superstardom in Tamil cinema. His style, mannerisms and punchlines have made him a cult figure in India and abroad, especially in Japan. He received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2021.
Quick Facts
| Birth name | Shivaji Rao Gaikwad |
| Born | 12 December 1950, Bangalore (now Bengaluru), India |
| Age | 75 |
| Known as | Thalaivar, Superstar |
| Debut | Apoorva Raagangal (1975) |
| Spouse | Latha Rajinikanth (m. 1981) |
| Daughters | Aishwarya, Soundarya |
| Honours | Padma Bhushan (2000), Padma Vibhushan (2016), Dadasaheb Phalke Award |
Early Life
Rajinikanth was born Shivaji Rao Gaikwad in Bengaluru into a Marathi family. His mother died when he was young. He did odd jobs before becoming a conductor with the Bangalore Transport Service, where he entertained passengers with his stylish ticket-punching. Encouraged by a friend, he joined the film institute in Madras.
Career
Director K. Balachander gave him his debut in Apoorva Raagangal (1975), alongside Kamal Haasan. After many villain roles, he became a lead star with Bhairavi (1978) and Billa (1980).
Through the 1990s and 2000s his blockbusters included Baashha (1995), Muthu (1995), which became a huge hit in Japan, Padayappa (1999), Sivaji (2007) and the sci-fi spectacle Enthiran (2010). He also acted in Hindi films such as Andhaa Kanoon and Hum.
His recent hits include Jailer (2023) and Coolie (2025), which featured a cameo by Aamir Khan. Jailer 2 has finished filming. In 2026 he is set to start shooting a long-awaited film with his old friend Kamal Haasan. Rajinikanth announced plans to enter politics in 2020 but withdrew, citing his health.
Personal Life
Rajinikanth married Latha Rangachari in 1981. Their daughters are Aishwarya, a filmmaker who was married to actor Dhanush, and Soundarya, a producer and director. He is known for his spirituality and regular retreats to the Himalayas.
Selected Filmography
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Rajinikanth born?
Rajinikanth was born on 12 December 1950 in Bangalore (now Bengaluru), India.
What honours has Rajinikanth received?
Padma Bhushan (2000), Padma Vibhushan (2016), Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
