When Rajinikanth Inspired Chiranjeevi Time And Again!

Well, how does it seem when two of the most distinctive stars of South Indian cinema share a great camaraderie and good rapport not just on screen, but off camera as well? Exemplary isn't it?

This is how it appears when we see Superstar Rajinikanth and Megastar Chiranjeevi display mutual affection. However, it is also a fact that the Thalaivaa of Kollywood has inspired Annayya of Tollywood not just in one case, but in as many as three instances.

It was year 1975 where a dark-skinned, unconventional young lad with a peculiar hairdo entered Tamil film industry. Yes, he was criticized for his complexion, looks and Tamil diction. But the same actor turned out to be the biggest ever Superstar South India cinema had ever seen, and inspired millions of youth through the walk of his life.

But guess what, Rajini Sir had inspired Shiva Shankara Vara Prasad in late 70's itself. Yes, you read it right! The latter who was idolized as Megastar Chiranjeevi, went on to write history on the walls of Tollywood.

Chiru during a speech in certain event had confessed that, cinema was a kingdom ruled by fair complexioned actors with standardized looks. But it was Rajinikanth who broke the myth and paved way for non-characteristic, boy-next-door appearance. This boosted the craving in him to enter filmdom and accomplish his desire of establishing himself as an actor.

This piece of inspiration gave birth to a star called Chiranjeevi.

Cut the scene to 1992, Both Rajini and Chiru were simultaneously shooting for a Kannada remake in their respective languages. The original version starred Dr. Rajkumar, who was idolized by both Superstar and Megastar. But, Chiru was a bit apprehensive in shouldering the character as he knew that his Tamil counterpart, who scores easily with his inimitable style and screen presence would sway the audience.

Hence, he remarked that he had to come out with a unique attitude and styling in the movie. This led to his cross-salute mannerism and "Face koncham turning icchuko" dialogue to keep up the pace with his colleague turned friend. This incident was shared by Chiranjeevi in Hyderabad during Rajini's Baba movie audio launch function, in 2002.

Finally, during Robo Audio launch in 2010, Chiranjeevi had quit acting and forayed into politics. But once an actor, always an actor. The urge in him to act in films never died down and he expressed the same in the function. Robo posters of Rajinikanth made him feel to get back to his acting den as he felt he belonged there.

The Gharana Mogudu star also acknowledged Rajinkanth's role in inspiring the latter in a sarcastic yet humorous tone. Well, Rajinikanth did not let the scene die down there, he grabbed the microphone and insisted Chiranjeevi to return to the silver screen to start roaring again. This encouraged the crowd to break into a huge round of applause.

Recently, during the pre-release function of Khaidi No 150, Chiranjeevi was seen taking Rajinikanth's reference in the list of well-wishers who wished the re-entry of Megastar into the tinsel town.

Well, one can simple admire the comradeship between these two legends and wish the young gen stars inculcate such values for a healthy competition.