A simple birthday wish, or rather the absence of one on social media, has recently become a hotly debated topic among fans. When Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor Vijay celebrated his 52nd birthday on June 22, several celebrities, politicians and industry colleagues took to social media to wish them. However, superstar Rajinikanth’s silence quickly caught the attention of fans online, sparking speculation as to whether he had deliberately chosen not to acknowledge the occasion.The veteran actor finally addressed the rumors on Wednesday while attending the title launch event of his upcoming film ‘Dharman’ in Chennai.
Rajinikanth revealed that he personally contacted Vijay
After unveiling the film’s title and first look, Rajinikanth briefly spoke to the media. When reporters questioned him about Vijay’s missing birthday post, the superstar gave a straightforward explanation. “I already greeted him by phone.”With that brief response, Rajinikanth made it clear that he personally conveyed his wishes through a public social media message, ending the online speculation.During the event, Rajinikanth also reflected on the scrutiny that often follows his public statements. The actor admits that he now approaches public interactions with caution as almost everything he says creates controversy.“The moment someone says they are calling me to speak, I hesitate. Because every time I speak, it becomes a problem for you or me.” The superstar points out that staying silent is also not a solution, as it often invites criticism of various kinds. “If I keep quiet, they’ll make fun of me and say, ‘Why isn’t he talking? He’s got a kojukatta in his mouth?’His comments drew laughs from those in attendance, but they also highlighted the pressure that comes with being one of the country’s most closely watched public figures.
Rajinikanth on learning from decades in the spotlight
Rajinikanth shared a personal observation about dealing with public opinion after spending decades in the limelight. “If I speak, some will say, why did he speak now? Others will say he should not have spoken.” The actor added that the experience taught him not to seek public approval.“After many years, I realized one thing: those who don’t like us won’t like us, no matter what we do. And to think that those who like us will like everything we do, no matter what we do, is stupid. One has to be careful.”The latest speculation started weeks after Rajinikanth was forced to address rumors regarding his equation with Vijay following the Tamil Nadu election results. Social media was flooded with claims that the superstar was unhappy with Vijay’s political success, prompting Rajinikanth to hold a press interaction at his Poes Garden residence.Dismissing the rumors at the time, he said: “Rajni is not a cheap or low-class person to talk unnecessarily about something else. I was very shocked to hear about Vijay becoming Chief Minister. I congratulate the Chief Minister as soon as he wins.”He also dismissed any suggestion of rivalry between the two stars. “I am not even in politics, so why should I be jealous of Vijay? If Kamal becomes CM, I might be jealous. There is a generation gap of 25 years between Vijay and me. It will not look good if we compete.”
A big new chapter with ‘Dharman’
While questions about Vijay dominated part of the interaction, the event itself centered around the announcement of Rajinikanth’s 173rd film ‘Dharman’. Produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raj Kamal Films International and directed by Aswath Marimuthu, the project marks a landmark collaboration between the two legends of Tamil cinema.Rajinikanth was last seen in ‘Coolie’, and with ‘Dharman’ now officially launched, attention has once again shifted from political speculation to the superstar’s much-anticipated big screen comeback.
