EXCLUSIVE | As Coolie hits screens, Mumbai gears up for grand celebration of Rajinikanths 50th year in cinema
As Coolie makes its grand theatrical debut, Mumbai is set to witness a spectacular celebration marking Rajinikanth's golden jubilee in cinema, with fans, celebrities and industry stalwarts coming together to honour the superstar's iconic journey.
New Delhi: Mumbai is preparing for a spectacle as superstar Rajinikanth’s Coolie gears up for release on 14 August. The release date also coincides with the legendary actor’s 50th year in cinema. Fans across the city have mapped out elaborate plans, turning the premiere into more than just a film screening; it’s set to be a festival.
In an exclusive conversation with TV9 English, Nityanand, head of the Mumbai Rajinikanth fan club, revealed that the fan show will be held at Miraj Cinema in Wadala at 6 AM. "But the celebrations will begin at 4.30 AM, with members from all the 50 fan clubs of Rajni sir from across Mumbai and Mira Road suburbs putting up banners of them with him,” he shared.
Rajinikanth's 50th year in cinema
While not every fan will get the coveted early morning show, many are travelling from neighbouring cities to witness the abhishekam and the first-day-first-show of their beloved "Thalaiva.” Mario, another committee member, explained that these gatherings are more than routine; they’re rituals that fans have followed for decades.
Rajinikanth’s cinematic journey began with a small role in K Balachander’s Apoorva Raagangal, portraying an abusive husband. His breakthrough came soon after with Moondru Mudichu, also directed by Balachander, where his unique style and mannerisms cemented his stardom. Even after 173 films, the actor continues to headline big-budget projects.
Celebrations of Rajinikanth films in Mumbai have a long history. Nambi Rajan, owner of the iconic Aurora Cinema in Matunga, recalled to TV9 English, "Aurora is not operational now, but the celebrations continue and fans of Rajinikanth will do so forever.” He fondly remembered earlier days when physical prints were taken to a temple before screenings, coconuts were broken for good fortune, and the reels were carried into the projection room with ceremonial respect. "It’s digital now, and the fan clubs celebrate with cutouts and abhishekam,” he said.
For this milestone year, the celebrations are being amplified. Nityanand disclosed that 50 women will perform the aarti, accompanied by the breaking of 50 coconuts and the pouring of 50 litres of milk over a towering 90-foot cutout of the superstar.
(With inputs from Bharti K Dubey.)