Happy Birthday Rajinikanth: Thalaiva's 74th Birthday

South superstar Rajinikanth, affectionately known as Thalaivar, marked his 74th birthday on Thursday. On this special day, heartfelt tributes poured in from his close friend Kamal Haasan, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, actor SJ Suryah, and others via their official X handles.

Kamal Haasan shared a warm message, stating, "Happy birthday to my dear friend, superstar @rajinikanth. May you achieve even greater success, enjoy good health, find happiness, and live a long life (sic)."

Actor SJ Suryah celebrated the occasion by posting a video highlighting Rajinikanth's illustrious career. He wrote, "Best wishes to SSI Productions & @Subbiahshan for the grand success of #Thalapathi re-release! Happy Birthday to our SUPERSTAR @rajinikanth Sir, always your fan SJSuryah (sic)."

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also conveyed his wishes, expressing, "Happy birthday to my wonderful friend, Superstar Mr. @rajinikanth. Your acting and style have touched fans from all walks of life! I wish continuous success, peace, and happiness for you (sic)."

Thalapathy Vijay, through his political party's X account, extended his best wishes, stating, "Dear and respected superstar Mr. @rajinikanth, I wish you a very happy birthday. I pray for your good health and long life (sic)."

Director Nelson Dilipkumar added his wishes, calling Rajinikanth an inspiration: "Happiest birthday to my dear #Superstar #Thalaivar #icon #legend #inspiration #Besthumanbeing @rajinikanth sir (sic)."

Filmmaker Karthik Subbaraj wrote, "Happy Birthday Thalaiva (sic)."

Bornaji Rao Gaekwad, Rajinikanth holds a legendary status in Indian cinema, commanding a devoted following across generations. Renowned for his charisma and distinctive style, his birthday is a festive occasion for his ardent fans, particularly in Tamil Nadu.

Mass Gatherings Outside Thalaivar's Residence

Every year, fans gather outside Rajinikanth’s Chennai home to celebrate his birthday. These festivities kick off at midnight, featuring plaques, posters, and banners in honour of their beloved superstar. Photos and videos from these vibrant rallies often go viral, underscoring the actor's immense popularity and the excitement of his supporters.

Cutting Extraordinary Cakes

Rajinikanth's birthday celebrations are marked by lavish cakes that symbolise his stardom. Last year, fans celebrated with a massive 15-foot-tall, 73-kg cake in Madurai. This tradition of extravagant displays is expected to continue this year.

Celebrating on Social Media

Social media buzzes with activity on Rajinikanth's birthday, with hashtags like #HBDSuperstarRajinikanth and #Thalaivar trending. Celebrities from Bollywood and beyond often share heartfelt messages, with Shah Rukh Khan referring to Rajinikanth as “the coolest, swaggiest, humblest star” last year.

Prayers and Special Screenings

Devoted fans offer prayers at the Rajinikanth temple in Madurai, while others perform private poojas in his honour. This year, fans can also look forward to the re-release of his 1991 blockbuster, Thalapathi, in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Anticipation is high for updates on his upcoming projects, Jailer 2 and Coolie, coinciding with his special day.

A statue of South megastar Rajinikanth has been unveiled at the “Arulmigu Sri Rajini Temple” in Thirumangalam, Madurai. The statue features Rajinikanth in his iconic role from the film ‘Mappillai,’ celebrating the legendary actor's significant contributions to cinema. The temple, managed by Karthik, a retired Army officer and devoted fan, has long been a site for Rajinikanth's admirers to pay their respects. Driven by his deep admiration for the superstar, Karthik established the temple and has conducted daily prayers and special worship services for years. In honour of Rajinikanth's 74th birthday, a new 3-foot tall, 300 kg statue inspired by his character in Mappillai has been unveiled, replacing the previous statue. Special prayers and rituals are planned to commemorate this occasion.