Today, Rajinikanth stands as one of the most revered and influential figures in South Indian cinema. His journey to superstardom, however, was not without moments of intense turmoil and danger. Long before the adulation and mass following, the actor once found himself facing a hostile crowd that turned violent, exposing the fragile line between fame and public wrath.
A Tribute That Sparked Controversy
The incident traces back to 1995, during a public gathering in Chennai organised to honour legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan. Speaking with deep emotion and conviction at the event, Rajinikanth made remarks that were interpreted unfavourably by certain sections of the public. What followed was a wave of resentment that quickly escalated into protests directed at him, transforming admiration into anger almost overnight.
A Terrifying Encounter on the Streets
The situation reached a frightening peak when Rajinikanth was travelling in a jeep through the city. A disorderly crowd surrounded the vehicle and began hurling stones, leaving the actor exposed and vulnerable. With no immediate support and confusion reigning around him, he found himself stranded in a moment of sheer panic, unsure of where to seek safety as those around him dispersed.
Bhagyaraj’s Courageous Intervention
At this critical juncture, actor, writer, and director K Bhagyaraj emerged as an unexpected protector. Displaying remarkable presence of mind and moral courage, Bhagyaraj confronted the police officers who were nearby but failing to act decisively. He reportedly reprimanded them for their inaction and insisted they take responsibility for Rajinikanth’s safety. His firm stance compelled the authorities to step in, ensuring the actor was escorted securely back to his residence.
A Debt of Gratitude That Endures
The intervention left a lasting impression on Rajinikanth, who later acknowledged that Bhagyaraj’s actions went far beyond professional courtesy. For him, it was an act of genuine humanity that demonstrated the importance of standing up for someone in distress. The bond between the two stalwarts of Tamil cinema was further strengthened through collaborations in films such as Naan Sigappu Manithan and Anbulla Rajinikanth, serving as enduring reminders of trust forged in adversity.
“I can never forget that day. He didn’t just save me from a mob; he showed what it truly means to stand up for another human being,” recalled Rajinikanth.
A Tribute That Sparked Controversy
The incident traces back to 1995, during a public gathering in Chennai organised to honour legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan. Speaking with deep emotion and conviction at the event, Rajinikanth made remarks that were interpreted unfavourably by certain sections of the public. What followed was a wave of resentment that quickly escalated into protests directed at him, transforming admiration into anger almost overnight.
A Terrifying Encounter on the Streets
The situation reached a frightening peak when Rajinikanth was travelling in a jeep through the city. A disorderly crowd surrounded the vehicle and began hurling stones, leaving the actor exposed and vulnerable. With no immediate support and confusion reigning around him, he found himself stranded in a moment of sheer panic, unsure of where to seek safety as those around him dispersed.
Bhagyaraj’s Courageous Intervention
At this critical juncture, actor, writer, and director K Bhagyaraj emerged as an unexpected protector. Displaying remarkable presence of mind and moral courage, Bhagyaraj confronted the police officers who were nearby but failing to act decisively. He reportedly reprimanded them for their inaction and insisted they take responsibility for Rajinikanth’s safety. His firm stance compelled the authorities to step in, ensuring the actor was escorted securely back to his residence.
A Debt of Gratitude That Endures
The intervention left a lasting impression on Rajinikanth, who later acknowledged that Bhagyaraj’s actions went far beyond professional courtesy. For him, it was an act of genuine humanity that demonstrated the importance of standing up for someone in distress. The bond between the two stalwarts of Tamil cinema was further strengthened through collaborations in films such as Naan Sigappu Manithan and Anbulla Rajinikanth, serving as enduring reminders of trust forged in adversity.
“I can never forget that day. He didn’t just save me from a mob; he showed what it truly means to stand up for another human being,” recalled Rajinikanth.