Rajinikanth, the iconic actor-turned-politician, has a charismatic on-screen persona and mass appeal. Rajinikanth has amassed a massive fan following not only in the Tamil film industry but also across the country. Rajinikanth had a short stint in politics from 2017-2021 with his party Rajini Makkal Mandram (RMM). The actor had announced his entry into politics on December 31, 2017 and on July 12, 2021, he dissolved the party.
Rajinikanth, whose real name is Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, was born on December 12, 1950, in Karnataka. He began his acting career in the 1970s and quickly rose to superstardom with his unique style, powerful dialogues, and larger-than-life characters. His films, known for their high-octane action sequences and socially relevant themes, have garnered him a dedicated fan base, often referred to as the "Rajini fandom."
Despite his superstar status, he maintains a down-to-earth demeanour and is often admired for his simplicity and accessibility. Rajinikanth's popularity transcends geographical boundaries and has earned him a devoted fan following not only in South India but also in other parts of the country and even internationally.
While Rajinikanth's political ambitions may have been put on hold, his influence as a cultural icon and his ability to connect with the masses cannot be denied. His statements and ideologies have often resonated with the common people, who see him as a symbol of hope and change. Rajinikanth's commitment to social causes, including education and healthcare, has further endeared him to the public.
Speculation about Rajinikanth entering politics entry started in 1996, when he first spoke against then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa; he would claim later that it was his statement that defeated her in the polls that year. Even before that, he had a strained relationship with Chief Minister and AIADMK founder M G Ramachandran — himself an actor — and Jayalalithaa, who succeeded MGR.
His first decisive statement about joining politics, however, came only on December 31, 2017. In March this year, he said he would not contest elections — in his words, he would be a lunatic to have a thirst for power at age 70 if he didn’t have it when he was 45 (in 1996).
All these years, his fans awaited his entry in politics and his installation as Chief Minister. It has been a long wait — his core fan base, who were in their 20s and 30s when they first demanded his leadership in the 1990s, are middle-aged now.
It is worth mentioning that Rajinikanth's potential entry into politics would have had significant implications, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where film stars have historically played a crucial role in politics. His mass following and the support of his dedicated fan base could have altered the political dynamics in the state.
