September 29th, 2010
What would you call a man who has been a beacon of hope for nearly four decades and delivers stellar performances that touch global audiences? Who is also worshiped as a champion of the masses and effortlessly stylises even the simplest of screenplays? The name is Rajnikanth. Despite other regional cinemas vacating the space of good samaritan scripts and desi Robin Hood type storyboards, Rajinikanth is perhaps the only phenomena, who just by the sheer fact of being in the film, has made it a success.
This grandfather of two is no bicep-wielding hunk, yet in his veshti-clad avatar manages to make even women, who have crossed the half century mark, whistle with vigour. Rajini might not have consumed the youth potion, but his sex appeal seems to soar as he transforms into this slick superhero. But it is this unconventional look combined with his street-style that gives him the edgy appeal. The nine-yards maamis who secretly wish they dated a bad boy, find him suitably refined. His image is that of a good at heart, quirky and vibrant young man — the perfect package for the one that roars in and out of intimate spaces.
Temple priests have started performing Paal abhishekams in the name of Rajini at the behest of fans.
“Tickets have been sold out for the first week. Even the trailers we are running are receiving a thunderous response,” shares Swaroop Reddy, director of Sathyam Cinemas. He also adds,“We had fans lining up outside our gates from 6 am, the day we opened ticket sales.”
Reality show director, Akhila Prakash, says, “I will ignore my bias against Tamil cinema and still whistle for Rajini. He is a legend who has infused dynamism and a light-hearted way of looking at everyday instances through his histrionics.”
Predicting a blockbuster reputed astrologer P.B. Sethuraman says, “The release date October 1 is not that auspicious but Rajinikanth and his family’s stars outshine any negative aspect. The film will definitely be a superhit.”
The lane in which Rajinikanth lives, which is used to frenzied scenes of sycophancy has once again started seeing fans line the pavements to catch a glimpse of their Robot. High profile neighbours of the star, who requested anonymity share, “It is a tradition we are used to. Some even climb trees to peek into his house.”
And surprisingly no one seems to mind this. “There is none like Rajini in the entire universe and if he is living amongst us, it can only be a good thing,” says a leading industrialist who is also known for his real estate portfolio.
Abhishekam for the idol
T. Ramalingam, who belongs to one of the numerous Rajini fan association says, "Everytime Thalaivar’s movie releases it is like watching God himself on the screen. We make elaborate preparations for the first few day. We all visit the Murugan temple in Vadapalani to offer prayers for the Superstar's success. We have even performed beer-abhishekham and paal abhishekham for our very own hero.”
Abhishekam for the idol
T. Ramalingam, who belongs to one of the numerous Rajini fan association says, "Everytime Thalaivar’s movie releases it is like watching God himself on the screen. We make elaborate preparations for the first few day. We all visit the Murugan temple in Vadapalani to offer prayers for the Superstar's success. We have even performed beer-abhishekham and paal abhishekham for our very own hero.”
Sci fi and Rajini
When creativity soars, the star’s value might diminish. But despite the film being touted as the costliest flick with revolutionary effects, the Rajini pull remains. “He is entertainment personified. Nothing else will outshine his calibre and I am happy to have worked with him,” shares a glamour model, who plays a blink-and-miss part in the film.
Security arrangements
Taking precautionary measures, M. Ravi, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) says, “We have deployed additional manpower for the first two days. It is to ensure free-flow of traffic and no clashes for tickets.” He also shares, “I have booked my tickets for the first day, second show and I can’t wait.”
All hail Rajini
His appeal knows no bounds. Adrenaline is at an all time high as youngsters scramble for last minute tickets. “Thanks to my father, I have grown up watching his films. This time Enthiran seems to be sold out and despite standing in queues across the city, I haven’t been lucky,” rues Nikhil Rajasekar, a student. Priya Natraj, a visual communication student shares, “My friends and I paid for five tickets of ` 250 each at a multiplex, the original price was ` 120 but by paying extra we didn’t have to stand in the queue and it was so much easier to get our hands on this.”
Special Shows
Cashing in on the rush, theatres like Kasi have factored in a dawn show. The film will be screened to fans who pay a price at 5 am on the first three days. Theatres outside the city limits have also been sold out and are trying to find out, if they are any cancellations from the bulk bookings. If rumours are to be believed, a private mini-theatre in the city run by the wife of a prominent director is planning to have a special screening for select celebrities.
