Rajinikanth at 75: How a Friend's Sacrifice Forged a Superstar

• Rajinikanth's journey from a Bengaluru bus conductor to India's biggest superstar is highlighted.
• His close friend, Raj Bahadur, sacrificed his salary for two years to support Rajinikanth's acting dream.
• Rajinikanth, born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, worked various odd jobs before becoming a bus conductor.
• He celebrated his 75th birthday on December 12, 2025, marking five decades in cinema.
• Rajinikanth dedicated his 2019 Dadasaheb Phalke Award to Raj Bahadur, acknowledging his crucial support.

Why It Matters: This story shows how a friend's sacrifice enabled a legend's rise.