When Dr Rajkumar Asked For This Superstar’s Call Sheet...

Years 1977 and 2002 are interlinked and provide an emotional recollection of incidents to the Kannada Thespian. Wondering what the article is about? Here is the story.

Kannada film industry was blessed with many popular stars during 70s era but it was Dr. Rajkumar who was largely adored, worshipped and celebrated by the film fans. Almost every artist and technician would have constructed a dream of working with "Annavru" (as he was fondly referred to by his fans, well-wishers and most industry insiders) at least once in a lifetime.

Such was the desire of a certain young lad as well who was just a 2-year-old toddler in the film fraternity. The young actor was offered a role for Dr. Rajkumar's Girikanye movie (1977) and the former had no bounds for his excitement and happiness.

Little did he know that he would be disappointed on the first day of shoot as the production house and direction team had other plans which eventually snatched the character from the young actor and was given to an already established actor, Thoogudeepa Srinivas.

Rajkumar, who witnessed the scene was moved by the dejection faced by the budding actor. He called on the latter, took out a small portion of 'Kumkuma' (vermillion), applied it on to the forehead of the actor and said "Don't be disappointed! You will be highly successful in the future. Millions of fans will follow you. You would be inundated with stack of cash. Who knows, I myself might ask for your call sheet one day". Dr. Raj remarked with this piece of motivation to keep up the spirit within him.

The young actor took the advice from his idol and was more than contented to have got the personal attention from the Nata Sarvabhowma himself.

The then young actor was none other than the Superstar of Indian Cinema who is loved by millions and millions of fans across the globe. He also is the second highest paid actor in Asia and his name is RAJINIKANTH!

Yes, Dr Rajkumar's prophecy became thoroughly factual in the year 2002. The Thespian actor's youngest son debuted into the Sandalwood, which created waves and went on to become a blockbuster. To commemorate the success of the movie, Dr Rajkumar's family had requested Superstar Rajinikanth to embrace the occasion as the Chief Guest and the invitation was accepted by the Superstar graciously.

The incident was said to be recollected by Dr. Rajkumar in the mid-2000s during a casual conversation with his close aide, Channa.

We all know both Dr Raj & Rajini are the epitome of simplicity and humility and it was once again proved with these connecting incidents. Rajkumar was modest in consoling and motivating the then budding actor in 1977 and Rajinikanth was modest enough in accepting the invitation cordially in 2002.