Entertainment
oi-Prakash KL
Few relationships in Tamil cinema have been as complex and intriguing as that of superstar Rajinikanth and veteran filmmaker Bharathiraja. Their association spans nearly five decades, beginning with the landmark 1977 film 16 Vayathinile, but over the years it has evolved into a unique mix of friendship, ideological clashes, public criticism and mutual respect.
As Bharathiraja passes away at 84 on Wednesday, it is time to recall his friendship with the Tamil superstar.
The five-decade relationship between Rajinikanth and Bharathiraja, starting with 1977’s ’16 Vayathinile’, was marked by Bharathiraja’s public criticisms, notably during the 2002 Cauvery dispute, and Rajinikanth’s consistent restraint, ultimately evolving into mutual respect despite ideological differences.
What makes the relationship particularly fascinating is that while Bharathiraja has repeatedly criticised Rajinikanth on political and social issues, the superstar has rarely responded in kind. Instead, Rajinikanth has consistently chosen restraint, often speaking about Bharathiraja with affection and respect despite the sharp attacks directed at him.
The Beginning: A Bond Forged in Cinema
Rajinikanth and Bharathiraja first worked together in 16 Vayathinile, the director’s debut film. Bharathiraja has often recalled how Rajinikanth negotiated his remuneration for the project before eventually agreeing to work for a reduced fee because it was a low-budget production.
Over the years, Bharathiraja acknowledged that he had witnessed Rajinikanth’s rise from a young actor playing negative roles to one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema. Despite their later disagreements, he has repeatedly described Rajinikanth as a self-made man who reached extraordinary heights through his own efforts.
Yet, even in the early years, Bharathiraja’s admiration did not always translate into praise for Rajinikanth’s acting abilities. Speaking at an event years later, Rajinikanth jokingly remarked that Bharathiraja always described him as “a good human being” whenever asked about his acting, implying that the director never fully accepted him as a great performer.
The Cauvery Dispute: The First Major Rift
The most significant public clash between the two emerged during the Cauvery water dispute in 2002.
At the time, Bharathiraja led the Tamil film industry’s agitation against Karnataka. He called for a protest in Neyveli demanding that power supply from the Neyveli Lignite Corporation to Karnataka be stopped until water was released to Tamil Nadu.
Rajinikanth disagreed with the strategy. Believing that such an approach would only worsen tensions between the two states, he chose to organise a separate fast in Chennai and advocated a non-confrontational form of protest.
The decision infuriated Bharathiraja. As convenor of the film industry’s Cauvery agitation committee, he publicly accused Rajinikanth of betraying Tamil interests. In one of his harshest remarks, Bharathiraja said that Tamil people had given Rajinikanth a place in the industry and alleged that he was “stabbing the people of Tamil Nadu on the back” over the Cauvery issue.
He also accused the actor of maintaining questionable links with Karnataka politicians and branded him a “traitor” to the Tamil cause.
Rajinikanth, however, refused to engage in a war of words. He maintained his stand and avoided personal attacks against the director.
Opposition to Rajinikanth’s Political Ambitions
The next major chapter unfolded when Rajinikanth announced his intention to enter politics in 2017.
Bharathiraja openly opposed the move. Referring to Rajinikanth’s Karnataka roots, he argued that while anyone could participate in Tamil Nadu politics, leadership of the state should remain in the hands of those belonging to Tamil Nadu.
Without directly naming the superstar on some occasions, Bharathiraja questioned the growing demand for Rajinikanth’s political entry and suggested that people should not “beg” outsiders to enter politics.
His remarks reignited debates about identity, regional belonging and Rajinikanth’s suitability for political leadership.
Yet again, Rajinikanth chose silence rather than confrontation.
The 2018 IPL Protest Controversy
Perhaps the most severe attack came in April 2018 during protests surrounding the IPL matches in Chennai amid renewed anger over the Cauvery issue.
After Rajinikanth expressed support for the police and criticised violent protests, Bharathiraja issued a strongly worded statement targeting the actor.
He labelled Rajinikanth the “saffron ambassador of Karnataka” and accused him of remaining silent on several issues concerning Tamils, including the Sri Lankan Tamil issue and environmental protests in Tamil Nadu.
Bharathiraja further alleged that Rajinikanth was using political announcements as publicity tools tied to film releases and warned him against what he described as divisive politics.
Despite the provocative language, Rajinikanth once again declined to retaliate publicly.
Bharathiraja’s Change of Heart
In later years, Bharathiraja’s tone softened considerably.
Reflecting on their relationship, the filmmaker admitted that he had hurt Rajinikanth repeatedly. He openly expressed admiration for the superstar’s ability to forgive and move on.
“I have hurt him a lot. But he forgets all that and shows affection to me. He doesn’t have a revenge mentality. He’s a great man, a great soul,” Bharathiraja said in an interview.
The veteran director’s appreciation became even more evident when Rajinikanth decided against launching his political party. Bharathiraja welcomed the decision and praised the actor’s maturity in putting his health and personal well-being ahead of political ambitions.
Calling Rajinikanth a deeply spiritual person, Bharathiraja said he had always wanted him to remain a friend rather than become a politician. He also commended Rajini’s fans for responding calmly to the announcement.
A Relationship Defined by Grace
The Rajinikanth-Bharathiraja equation remains one of Tamil cinema’s most unusual relationships. It has witnessed fierce disagreements over politics, identity and public issues. Bharathiraja has often been outspoken, sometimes using remarkably harsh language against the superstar.
Yet Rajinikanth’s response has remained consistent through the years. Rather than counterattack, he has chosen silence, humour and respect. Even after decades of criticism, he continues to acknowledge Bharathiraja’s contribution to his early career and treats him as a friend.
In an industry often marked by rivalries and public feuds, their story stands out as a reminder that disagreement does not always have to destroy personal affection. Despite numerous clashes, the bond between Bharathiraja and Rajinikanth has endured-built on a foundation of shared history, mutual respect and, above all, forgiveness.
