Happy Birthday Rajinikanth: Reminisce These 5 Classic Songs of the Thalaivar

Hours after the electoral results of five states are out, India is celebrating the 68th birthday of the biggest superstar the country has ever seen and his name is Shivaji Rao Gaekwad; popularly known by his screen-name Rajinikanth.
This true demigod in the Southern territory with a massive chunk of fan-base behind his back is immensely loved for his charismatic screen presence, unique style, arresting mannerisms, and also for his humble nature in real life.His latest science-fiction thriller ‘2.O’ is running to packed houses all across the globe.
Born into a financially backward family, Rajinikanth earned his bread & butter by doing various odd jobs in Bengaluru and Chennai, before ending up as a bus conductor with the Bangalore Transport Service. Stunned by his style and mannerisms; passengers, colleagues & friends persuaded him to try his luck in acting. During his stay at the Madras Film Institute in 1974, Rajini’s performance in a stage play was noticed by Tamil film director K. Balachander.
Starting his showbiz journey through supporting roles which gradually turned him into an antagonist, Rajinikanth became a full-fledged hero with the phenomenal success of ‘Billa’ in 1980. From then on, the Thalaivar made it big in Kollywood with successive super-hits at the ticket counters which also included several Bollywood flicks.
It was Suresh Krissna’s ‘Baasha’ in 1995 that turned the tables for the ‘Kabali’ star in Telugu cinema. The dubbed version of this action film collected big money at the local box-office and the following years, Rajinikanth catapulted into the top league of Tollywood with successive blockbusters like ‘Muthu’, ‘Narasimha’, ‘Chandramukhi’, ‘Sivaji’, and ‘Robo’. On the occasion of his 68th birthday, let’s reminisce the top 5 classic Telugu songs of the Superstar.
‘Chilakamma Chitikeyanga’ from Dalapathi (1992)
This peppy number from the 1991 film ‘Dalapathi’ was composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja with renowned singer SP Balasubrahmanyam and Swarnalatha lending their voices. The catchy lyrics, foot-tapping music and Rajini’s versatile dance moves made ‘Chilakamma Chitikeyanga’ a favourite among the masses. The original number (Tamil) was named the fourth most popular song in a poll conducted by the BBC World Service worldwide in 2002.
‘Nenu Auto Vanni’ from Baasha (1995)
This introductory song composed by Deva for the cult action film ‘Baasha’ is still heard in several parts of Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh. Especially, Auto drivers considered it as a perfect number to depict their profession. Sung by SP Balu, ‘Nenu Auto Vanni’ acquired a solid following over the years for its meaningful lyrics, Rajini’s expressions, and catchy tune.
‘Thillana Thillana’ from Muthu (1995)
This dancing number from the 1995 blockbuster is still a hot favourite among Japanese audience. ‘Muthu’ is the first Indian film to receive a humongous success in the Land of Rising Sun, and Rajinikanth became their matinee idol from then on. Along with Mano and Sujatha’s voice, the sizzling dance moves of the ‘Kaala’ actor and Meena was highly praised by the viewers. Acclaimed musician AR Rahman composed the tunes for this film.
‘Yekku Tholi Mettu’ from Narasimha (1999)
Crooned by Palakkad Sreeram, the superb soundtrack is from Rajinikanth’s 1999 blockbuster film ‘Narasimha’ directed by KS Ravikumar. The song showcases the inspiring journey of the lead actor who becomes rich after finding granite in his place. The AR Rahman musical shattered all the existing records in Tamil cinema and held the highest box-office record for close to five years.
‘Inumulo O Hrudayam’ from Robo (2010)
The paced number from the 2010 science-fiction thriller ‘Robo’ has been sung by the Oscar musician himself along with Kash n’ Krissy. The dazzling sets, breath-taking costumes, wonderful choreography, and the eye-popping dance moves of Aishwarya Rai & Rajini literally sent the audience into frenzy. Especially, the gorgeous actress is a treat to watch on the celluloid.