Rajinikanth is a legendary Indian actor who mainly works in Tamil cinema.
His real name is Shivaji Rao Gaikwad, and he was born on 12 December 1950 (75 years old) in Bangalore, Mysore State, now Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
He is widely known for his unique screen style, powerful dialogue delivery, and long career in Indian cinema.
He is one of the leading stars of Tamil cinema, with work across Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, and other films.
He made his film debut with K. Balachander’s Apoorva Raagangal in 1975 and later became famous through films such as Billa, Baashha, Sivaji, Enthiran, Kabali, Jailer, and Coolie.
Quick Facts: Rajinikanth
| Full Name | Shivaji Rao Gaikwad |
| Also Known As | Rajinikanth, Thalaivar |
| Profession | Actor, film producer, screenwriter, playback singer |
| Age | 75 years old |
| Date of Birth | 12 December 1950 |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Zodiac/Sun Sign | Sagittarius |
| Birthplace | Bangalore, Mysore State, now Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Current Address | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| Gender | Male |
Rajinikanth Early Life and Education
Rajinikanth was born as Shivaji Rao Gaikwad.
His interest in acting developed through stage plays and cultural activities.
Later, he joined the Madras Film Institute, where he trained in acting.
His talent was noticed by director K. Balachander, who introduced him to Tamil cinema through Apoorva Raagangal in 1975.
Education
Rajinikanth completed his schooling in Bangalore.
He completed his early education at the Gavipuram Government Kannada Model Primary School in Bangalore.
As a child, his brother enrolled him at the Ramakrishna Math. Here, he was taught Vedas, tradition, and history, and first began acting in stage plays.
He studied at Acharya Pathasala in Bangalore and was also associated with Vivekananda Balaka Sangha, a unit connected with the Ramakrishna Mission.
His formal acting training came from the Madras Film Institute, also known as the Adyar Film Institute.
| School | Acharya Pathasala, Bangalore |
| Alma Mater | Madras Film Institute or Adyar Film Institute |
| Highest Qualification | Acting training from Madras Film Institute |
Rajinikanth Personal Life
Rajinikanth is known for living a very modest private life in Chennai. He has been married to Latha Rangachari since 1981 and remains deeply connected to his spiritual practices.
Despite his legendary cinematic status, he maintains a grounded daily routine focused on simplicity, family, and charity.
Wife
Latha Rajinikanth (née Rangachari) is the wife of superstar Rajinikanth, married since February 26, 1981. She is a prominent Chennai-based educationist, philanthropist, playback singer, and film producer. She was born on March 2, 1958, in Chennai into a Tamil family.
In 1980, while studying at Ethiraj College, she interviewed Rajinikanth for her college magazine. He proposed to her during that very meeting. They wed in a traditional ceremony at the Tirupati Temple.
Children
Rajinikanth and Latha have two daughters, Aishwarya Rajinikanth and Soundarya Rajinikanth. Both daughters have worked in the entertainment industry.
Aishwarya Rajinikanth directed the Tamil psychological thriller 3 (2012), which featured the viral song “Why This Kolaveri Di”, the action-thriller Vai Raja Vai (2015), and the sports drama Lal Salaam (2024). She married actor Dhanush in 2004 and has two sons, Yatra and Linga. The couple announced their separation in January 2022 and filed for a mutual divorce in 2024.
Soundarya Rajinikanth directed India’s first photorealistic motion capture film, Kochadaiiyaan (2014), starring her father, and the comedy-drama Velaiilla Pattadhari 2 (2017). She was previously married to Ashwin Ramkumar, with whom she has a son, Ved Krishna. In 2019, she married industrialist and actor Vishagan Vanangamudi, and they welcomed a son named Veer in 2022.
Father
Ramoji Rao Gaikwad (also spelled Gaekwad) was the father of Indian cinematic icon Rajinikanth. He worked as a police constable in Bangalore (now Bengaluru) during both the British era and post-independence India.
He belonged to a Marathi-speaking family originally from the village of Mavadi Kadeopathar in Pune district, Maharashtra. He later relocated to Bangalore.
Mother
Ramabai Gaikwad (frequently recorded in biographies as Rambhai or Jijabai) was the mother of Indian superstar Rajinikanth. She was a homemaker who managed the family’s modest household in Bangalore.
She came from a Maharashtrian lineage and was married to Ramoji Rao Gaikwad, a police constable. She spent her married life caring for their home and children.
Siblings
Superstar Rajinikanth (born Shivaji Rao Gaikwad) is the youngest of four siblings. Raised in a modest household in Bengaluru, his siblings played foundational roles in his upbringing, acting as parental and financial anchors during his early life and struggles.
- Satyanarayana Rao Gaikwad (Elder Brother) served as the primary patriarch and mentor of the family after their mother’s early demise. He recognized Rajinikanth’s interest in arts early on and enrolled him at the Ramakrishna Math to instill cultural and spiritual discipline.
- Nageshwara Rao Gaikwad (Elder Brother) stayed completely out of the media spotlight and public eye. According to historical family notes, he served the nation as an army man in the Indian Army and faced various hardships during his lifetime. He passed away prior to Rajinikanth’s peak eras of global cinematic fame.
- Aswath Balubhai Gaikwad (Elder Sister) took on a crucial maternal role in taking care of the youngest sibling, Shivaji (Rajinikanth), following their mother’s passing when he was just nine years old.
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Wife | Latha Rajinikanth |
| Children | Daughter: Aishwarya Rajinikanth Daughter: Soundarya Rajinikanth |
| Parents | Father: Ramoji Rao Gaikwad Mother: Ramabai |
| Siblings | Brother: Satyanarayana Rao Gaikwad Brother: Nageshwara Rao Gaikwad Sister: Aswath Balubhai Gaikwad |
Rajinikanth Career
Rajinikanth is an Indian actor who predominantly works in Tamil cinema. In a career spanning over five decades, he has done 170 films across Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, Bangla, and Malayalam, and is widely regarded as one of the most successful and popular actors in the history of Indian cinema.
Early Career & Rise (1975–1979)
1975 — Made his film debut in K. Balachander’s Tamil drama Apoorva Raagangal, cast in a small role as the ex-husband of the female lead, with a review from The Hindu noting “Newcomer Rajinikanth is dignified and impressive.”
1976 — Appeared in Katha Sangama (Kannada anthology), had a pivotal role in Anthuleni Katha (Telugu, directed by Balachander), and played his first prominent Tamil role in Moondru Mudichu, where his cigarette-flipping style made him popular with audiences.
1977 — Had 15 films released during the year across Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada; made his first-ever lead appearance in the Telugu film Chilakamma Cheppindi; and was cast in a positive lead role in Bhuvana Oru Kelvi Kuri by director S. P. Muthuraman, a partnership that led to 24 more films together.
1978 — Had 20 releases across Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada; Bairavi became the first Tamil film to cast him as a solo hero, earning him the sobriquet “Superstar”; he also starred in Mullum Malarum and Aval Appadithan, which earned him critical acclaim and a Tamil Nadu State Film Award Special Prize for Best Actor.
Stardom Established (1980–1990)
1980 — Played dual roles in the action thriller Billa, a remake of the Hindi film Don (1978); it was his biggest commercial success to that point, earned him stardom, and gave him the action hero image.
1982 — Starred in triple roles in Moondru Mugam, which earned him a special prize at the Tamil Nadu State Film Awards.
1983 — Made his Hindi film debut with T. Rama Rao’s Andhaa Kaanoon, which was the top-grossing Hindi film of that year.
1984 — Nallavanukku Nallavan won him the Filmfare Award for Best Tamil Actor, and he was also honoured with the Kalaimamani Award.
1985–1989 — Starred in several successful Tamil and Hindi films including Geraftaar (1985), Padikkadavan (1985), Mr. Bharath (1986), Dosti Dushmani (1986), Velaikaran (1987), Manithan (1987), Dharmathin Thalaivan (1988), and ChaalBaaz (1989).
Peak Superstar Era (1991–2000)
1991 — Delivered a critically acclaimed performance in Mani Ratnam’s Tamil crime film Thalapathi.
1992 — Collaborated with director Suresh Krissna on Annaamalai and also starred in P. Vasu’s Mannan, both significant box-office successes.
1993 — Made his debut as a screenwriter with Valli, also producing the film; starred in Uzhaippali and Ejamaan, among other hits.
1995 — Baashha became the biggest commercial success of his career to that point and remained the highest-grossing Tamil film for many years; also starred in K. S. Ravikumar’s Muthu, which created a massive fan base for him in Japan.
1999 — Padayappa, directed by K. S. Ravikumar, became his and Tamil cinema’s then-highest-grossing movie, surpassing Baashha.
2000 — Honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.
Post-Hiatus Comeback & Landmark Films (2002–2010)
2002 — Starred in and produced Baba, written by himself; the film underperformed commercially.
2005 — Returned to acting after a hiatus with the comedy-horror film alongside Jyothika Saravanan, Chandramukhi, which became the highest-grossing Tamil film of all time at that point.
2007 — Sivaji, directed by S. Shankar, opposite Shriya Saran became the third Indian film and the first ever Tamil film to enter the ₹100 Crore Club.
2008 — Starred in Kuselan alongside Pasupathy, marking a more restrained, supporting-style appearance.
2010 — Played dual roles as a scientist and an android humanoid robot in the landmark science fiction film Enthiran (directed by S. Shankar), one of India’s most expensive productions at the time of its release and among the highest-grossing Indian films ever.
The 2010s — Social Themes, Tech & Selective Cinema (2011–2019)
2011 — Health issues during the filming of Rana led to hospitalizations for bronchitis and nephropathy, treated in Singapore; the film was shelved; he appeared in a cameo in Shah Rukh Khan‘s Ra.One.
2014 — Starred in Kochadaiiyaan, directed by his daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth, which used motion capture technology; also starred in Lingaa, directed by K. S. Ravikumar, which received mixed reviews.
2016 — Kabali, directed by Pa. Ranjith, explored social and political themes; Kabali broke records for the highest-opening weekend for an Indian film at the time, and he was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award.
2018 — A landmark year with three releases: Kaala (directed by Pa. Ranjith, exploring Dalit identity and social themes), and 2.0 (the high-budget sequel to Enthiran, co-starring Akshay Kumar and India’s most expensive film at the time); also starred in Karthik Subbaraj’s Petta.
2019 — Petta with Vijay Sethupathi and Megha Akash grossed over ₹250 crore and was praised for Rajinikanth’s vintage style; combined earnings from Kaala, 2.0, and Petta exceeded ₹1,000 crore.
2020s — Continued Box Office Dominance
2020 — Darbar, directed by A. R. Murugadoss, alongside Prateik Babbar, received mixed reviews and underperformed commercially.
2021 — Annaatthe, directed by Siva, co-starred Keerthy Suresh and was a blockbuster, grossing an estimated ₹220–240 crore, released on Diwali.
2023 — Jailer, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, earned over ₹600 crore worldwide, making Rajinikanth the only Tamil actor with three films surpassing the ₹500 crore mark.
Recent Work (2024–2025)
2024 — Lal Salaam — Appeared in a cameo role as Moideen Bhai in his daughter Aishwarya Rajinikanth’s directorial; the film underperformed at the box office.
2024 — Vettaiyan — Starred as SP Athiyan, an IPS officer, in this action drama directed by TJ Gnanavel; the film received positive critical reviews and marked a reunion with Amitabh Bachchan after 33 years, his 170th film.
2025 — Coolie — Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj (his 171st film as lead actor), released theatrically worldwide on 14 August 2025, with music by Anirudh Ravichander; shot in Chennai, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Jaipur, and Bangkok. The film earned close to ₹290 crore net at the Indian box office and over ₹500 crore gross globally, though it was considered an underperformance relative to expectations.
Upcoming Work
Jailer 2 (2026) — A sequel to the 2023 blockbuster Jailer, directed again by Nelson Dilipkumar, with Rajinikanth reprising his role as ‘Tiger’ Muthuvel Pandian; principal photography wrapped on 21 April 2026 and the film is expected to release after June 2026. The sequel features cameos from Mohanlal and Shah Rukh Khan and is currently the most anticipated Tamil film of 2026.
Thalaivar 173 (2027) — Rajinikanth began promo shoots in Chennai on 27 April 2026 for this project directed by Cibi Chakaravarthi, produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International. The film is expected to release during Pongal 2027.
KH x RK (2027) — A much-anticipated reunion of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan after 47 years on screen together, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Raaj Kamal Films International and Red Giant Films; a promo has been released, and the film is slated for 2027.
Rajinikanth Awards and Achievements
Awards (Wins)
- 1984 — Kalaimamani Award, from the Government of Tamil Nadu.
- 1989 — M.G.R. Award (Honorary), from the Government of Tamil Nadu.
- 1995 — Kalaichelvam Award, from the South Indian Film Artistes’ Association.
- 2000 — Padma Bhushan, from the Government of India — India’s third-highest civilian honour.
- 2006 — Raj Kapoor Award, conferred by the Government of Maharashtra.
- 2012 — Rajiv Gandhi Award, conferred by the Government of Maharashtra.
- 2016 — Padma Vibhushan, from the Government of India — India’s second-highest civilian honour.
- 2016 — NTR National Award, presented at the Nandi Awards.
- 2021 — Dadasaheb Phalke Award (for 2019), the highest Indian award in cinema — presented by the Directorate of Film Festivals.
- 2014 — Indian Film Personality of the Year (Centenary Award) at the 45th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
- 2019 — Golden Jubilee ICON Award at the 50th IFFI.
- 2025 — Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award at IFFI 2025, honouring his 50 years in the Indian film industry.
- 1979 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Best Actor for Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai.
- 1982 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Special Award for Enkeyo Ketta Kural.
- 1984 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Best Actor for Nallavanukku Nallavan.
- 1985 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Best Actor for Sri Raghavendra.
- 1991 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Best Actor for Thalapathy.
- 1992 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Best Actor for Annaamalai.
- 1993 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Best Story Writer for Valli.
- 1995 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Best Actor for Baashha and Muthu.
- 1979 — Cinema Express Award – Best Actor for Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai.
- 1984 — Cinema Express Award – Best Actor for Nallavanukku Nallavan.
- 1985 — Cinema Express Award – Best Actor for Sri Raghavendra.
- 1991 — Cinema Express Award – Best Actor for Thalapathy.
- 1992 — Cinema Express Award – Best Actor for Annaamalai.
- 1993 — Cinema Express Award – Best Story Writer for Valli.
- 1995 — Cinema Express Award – Best Actor for Baashha and Muthu.
- 1978 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award – Special Award for Mullum Malarum.
- 1989 — Filmfans Association Honorary Award — M.G.R. Award.
- 1995 — Filmfans Association Award – Best Actor for Muthu.
- 1999 — Filmfans Association Award – Best Actor for Padayappa.
- 2005 — Filmfans Association Award – Best Actor for Chandramukhi.
- 2007 — Filmfans Association Award – Best Actor for Sivaji.
- 1984 — Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil for Nallavanukku Nallavan — his first and only Filmfare win.
- 1995 — Nandi Award – Best Actor for Peddarayudu.
- 1988 — Cinema Express Award – Best Achiever for Bloodstone.
- 2007 — NDTV Indian Entertainer of the Year, competing against the likes of Shah Rukh Khan.
- 2011 — NDTV Entertainer of the Decade Award (for the year 2010), presented by Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram.
- 2011 — NDTV Most Stylish Actor Award.
- 2013 — NDTV honoured him as one of the “25 Greatest Global Living Legends.”
- 2008 — Vijay Award – Favourite Hero for Sivaji.
- 2011 — Vijay Award – Chevalier Sivaji Ganesan Award for Excellence in Indian Cinema (Lifetime Achievement).
- 2012 — Vijay Award – Favourite Hero for Enthiran.
- 2015 — Vijay Award – Favourite Hero for Lingaa.
- 1995 — South Indian Film Artistes’ Association special honour.
Nominations
Filmfare Awards South – Best Actor
- 1977 — Nominated – Best Actor (Telugu) for Chilakamma Cheppindi.
- 1978 — Nominated – Best Actor (Tamil) for Mullum Malarum.
- 1979 — Nominated – Best Actor for Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai.
- 1980 — Nominated – Best Actor for Johnny.
- 1981 — Nominated – Best Actor for Thillu Mullu.
- 1982 — Nominated – Best Actor for Moondru Mugam.
- 1984 — Won – Best Actor (Tamil) for Nallavanukku Nallavan — his only Filmfare win.
- 1987 — Nominated – Best Actor for Velaikaran.
- 1990 — Nominated – Best Actor for Panakkaran.
- 1991 — Nominated – Best Actor for Thalapathi.
- 1992 — Nominated – Best Actor for Annaamalai.
- 1993 — Nominated – Best Actor for Uzhaippali.
- 1995 — Nominated – Best Actor for Baashha.
- 1995 — Nominated – Best Actor for Muthu.
- 1997 — Nominated – Best Actor for Arunachalam.
- 1999 — Nominated – Best Actor for Padayappa.
- 2007 — Nominated – Best Actor for Sivaji.
- 2010 — Nominated – Best Actor for Enthiran.
- 2016 — Nominated – Best Actor for Kabali.
Rajinikanth Controversies
Rajinikanth has been a major public figure for many decades, so some of his political comments, film releases, and public statements have created debate. However, he has mostly maintained a respected image in the film industry.
Cauvery Water Dispute Remarks: Rajinikanth has faced public reactions in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu because of his comments on the Cauvery water dispute. During earlier protests, some Kannada groups opposed the release of his films in Karnataka after his statements were seen as supporting Tamil Nadu’s position.
Political Entry and Withdrawal: Rajinikanth’s long-discussed political entry also became a major public topic. He announced plans to enter politics, but later withdrew from launching a political party due to health concerns and the COVID-19 situation. His decision led to mixed reactions from fans and political observers, as many had expected him to enter electoral politics.
Kaala Release Opposition: Rajinikanth’s film Kaala faced opposition in Karnataka after his comments on the Cauvery issue. Some groups demanded a ban on the film’s release in the state.
The Periyar Remarks Controversy: Rajinikanth sparked controversy at Thuglak magazine’s 50th anniversary event after claiming that a 1971 Periyar-led rally featured nude portraits of Lord Ram and Sita garlanded with slippers. He refused to apologize, saying his remarks were based on published reports. Later archival clarifications said footwear was thrown, and obscene images were present, but the claim about nude portraits of Ram and Sita was inaccurate.
The Baba Movie and PMK Clashes: After the release of Baba, PMK founder Dr. S. Ramadoss criticized Rajinikanth for smoking and drinking scenes, saying they could influence Tamil youth. PMK activists later protested in parts of Tamil Nadu, attacked theatres, and stole a film print box, after which Rajinikanth warned of legal action against the party leadership.
Comments on the Sterlite Protest Violence: Rajinikanth faced criticism after the 2018 Thoothukudi anti-Sterlite protests, where 13 civilians were killed in police firing. He claimed “anti-social elements” had triggered the violence, but the Justice Aruna Jagadeesan Commission later said he had no evidence for the claim and reminded public figures to speak responsibly.
Falling at Yogi Adityanath’s Feet: During a Jailer promotional visit to Lucknow, Rajinikanth was filmed touching Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s feet. The gesture drew criticism in Tamil Nadu, with some linking it to the state’s self-respect ideology. Rajinikanth later defended it, saying he usually seeks blessings from sanyasis and yogis, regardless of age.
Allegations of DMK Threats and the TVK Row: In early 2026, TVK leader Adhav Arjuna claimed that Rajinikanth withdrew from politics in 2020 due to threats from the ruling DMK family. Rajinikanth denied the claim, called it defamatory, and said that “time always provides answers.” After backlash, Adhav Arjuna publicly apologized to him.
Rajnikanth Net Worth
Below is the estimated net worth and annual salary of Rajinikanth:
| Net Worth in Dollars Approx | $51 million to $55 million (₹488 crore to ₹526 crore) |
| Salary Approx | ₹125 crore and ₹270 crore |
Rajinikanth Height, Weight and Physical Stats
Below are the height, weight, and physical stats of Rajinikanth:
| Height | In feet and inches: 5 feet 8 inches In centimetres: 173 cm In meters: 1.73 m |
| Weight | In kg: 74 kg In lbs: 163 lbs |
| Body Measurements | 40-33-12 |
| Hair Color | White |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Rajinikanth Social Media
 @rajinikanth | |
| X |  @rajinikanth |
 @Rajinikanth |
Interesting Facts about Rajinikanth
- He was raised speaking Marathi at home and Kannada outside.
- He lost his mother at just nine years old, and the tragedy deeply shaped his lifelong sense of spirituality and humility.
- Before acting, he worked as a carpenter, a coolie, and finally as a bus conductor with the Karnataka Transport Department.
- As a bus conductor in 1971, he earned just ₹275 per month and worked specifically on Bengaluru’s Route No. 10A.
- His iconic cigarette flip was inspired by actor Shatrughan Sinha and perfected through hours of mirror practice.
It was director K. Balachander who rechristened Shivaji Rao Gaekwad as Rajinikanth. - Padayappa (1999) marked his 150th film milestone.
- Forbes India named him the most influential Indian of the year 2010,
- His fans’ devotion crosses into the extraordinary hordes of followers who worship his posters with garlands and milk as offerings every time a major Rajinikanth film releases in cinemas.
FAQs
Who is Rajinikanth?
Rajinikanth is a legendary Indian actor who mainly works in Tamil cinema. He is known for his unique style, powerful screen presence, and films such as Baashha, Sivaji, Enthiran, and Jailer.
What is Rajinikanth’s real name?
Rajinikanth’s real name is Shivaji Rao Gaikwad.
What is Rajinikanth’s age, and where is he from?
Rajinikanth is 75 years old. He was born in Bangalore, Mysore State, now Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, on 12 December 1950.
Who is Rajinikanth’s wife?
Rajinikanth’s wife is Latha Rajinikanth.
Who are Rajinikanth’s children?
Rajinikanth has two daughters, Aishwarya Rajinikanth and Soundarya Rajinikanth.
What is Rajinikanth famous for?
Rajinikanth is famous for his style, dialogue delivery, and superstar status in Tamil cinema. He is known for films such as Billa, Baashha, Muthu, Sivaji, Enthiran, and Jailer.
What was Rajinikanth’s debut movie?
Rajinikanth made his film debut with Apoorva Raagangal in 1975, directed by K. Balachander.
What did Rajinikanth study?
Rajinikanth studied in Bangalore and later trained in acting at the Madras Film Institute. His full academic qualification is yet to be updated.
