Rajinikanth, the iconic superstar, marks another year of his life, and as fans celebrate his enduring charisma, Bollywood stars have shared their admiration for the Kollywood legend over the years.
Aamir Khan, despite being approached for the lead role in Shankar’s “2.0,” turned down the opportunity, citing Rajinikanth’s irreplaceable presence.
Aamir revealed in a 2017 interview with ETC Bollywood, “Rajini sir felt back then that he wasn’t healthy enough to shoot for the film and suggested that Shankar rope me in. But, when I closed my eyes I could only see Rajini sir in the role, he’s irreplaceable.
I’ve read the script, the film will be a super hit. But I didn’t think anyone but him could do it. It was not a tough decision to turn it down because I am his fan.”
Amitabh Bachchan, who shared the screen with Rajinikanth in the 1991 film “Hum,” considers the South Indian superstar as a member of his family.
At IFFI 2019 in Goa, Amitabh expressed, “I think of Rajinikanth ji as a member of my family. We stay in touch and often talk. Sometimes he asks me for advice and vice versa.”
Despite the exchange of advice, Amitabh humorously acknowledged, “Sometimes I tell him not to do something but he goes ahead and does it. But thank you, Rajini, for being with me.
You’re an incredible source of inspiration. Such a humble being, he came from such humble beginnings. He inspires us every day.”
Hrithik Roshan, who shared the screen with Rajinikanth in the 1986 film “Bhagwaan Dada” when he was a child actor, fondly remembered the experience.
Hrithik shared in a 2017 interview, “I used to say whatever I want to him as if he was my friend while shooting for Bhagwaan Dada.
He was very gracious back then because he forgave a lot of things I did or said. I remember vividly how whenever I would make a mistake and the director (my grandfather) would cut the shot, Rajini sir would apologize so I don’t feel bad.
I remember that now with so much love in my heart because he kept my confidence.”
As Rajinikanth adds another year to his illustrious career, these Bollywood stars continue to express their deep respect and fondness for the legendary actor.