Hrithik Roshan took to social media to honor Rajinikanth on completing an extraordinary 50 years in Indian cinema, posting a heartfelt message that not only celebrated the legend's legacy but also revealed a lesser-known chapter from Hrithik’s own journey.
"Took my first steps as an actor at your side. You were one of my first teachers, @rajinikanth sir, and continue to be an inspiration and a standard. Congratulations on completing 50 years of on-screen magic!" Hrithik wrote, referencing his 1986 debut in Bhagwaan Dada where he appeared as Rajinikanth’s adopted son at the age of 12. The film, directed by Hrithik’s grandfather J. Om Prakash, marked an unexpected and early collaboration between two future titans of Indian cinema.
While Bhagwaan Dada remains a relatively obscure entry in both actors’ filmographies, it serves as a symbolic passing of the torch. At the time, Rajinikanth had already begun to transition from his early typecasting as a villain to a full-fledged leading man, especially in Tamil remakes of Amitabh Bachchan blockbusters like Billa (1980). Hrithik, decades later, would mirror that commercial arc in Bollywood, debuting with Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai and rising to become one of the industry's most bankable stars.
Rajinikanth’s cinematic journey—from bus conductor to pan-Indian superstar—has become part of pop culture folklore. With his films reportedly grossing over 10,000 crore globally by 2024, his milestone marks not just longevity but sustained box office dominance. That he continues to inspire the next generation, including stars like Hrithik, underscores his rare cross-generational appeal and influence.
Interestingly, Rajnikanth starrer Coolie, and Hrithik Roshan starrer War 2 will clash at the box-office, on 14th August.