Few film actors have the kind of hold on audiences or a cult of personality like South Indian superstar Rajnikanth. Born this day in 1950, to a Marathi family as Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, the actor who was once a humble bus conductor managed to turn his luck around and become one of the most acclaimed and venerated thespians in film history.
With a career spanning five decades and multiple commercial hits, it is no surprise that the Thalaivar has accumulated enough wealth to live a cushy life, but his serene home in Chennai is the antithesis to that. Classy yet traditional, Rajnikanth’s permanent residence will surprise you. Today on his 75th birthday let us take a virtual tour of his home.
Inside the traditional Poes Garden home worth Rs 40 crores
Located in the posh Poes Garden locality of Chennai, the superstar’s home stands out among other affluent homes belonging to politicians, industrialists and actors. According to Housing.com, property rates in the area are sky high with a square ft of area costing anywhere between Rs 35,000 – 40,000. Rajnikanth’s home is reportedly in the Rs 35 – 40 crore ballpark.
The sprawling mansion is built in a traditional style with stark white walls, warm brown furnishing marble flooring. Paintings and wooden panels line the walls and a grand chandelier creates a welcoming atmosphere for guests in the living room. It is equipped with a well-maintained lawn that is dotted with a variety of plants and comes with ample parking space.
There is also an expansive sitting room which is heavily panelled with dark wood and on one of the walls, the star has displayed his life’s legacy in mementos and portraits. A picture with the former president of India, Pranab Mukherjee, pictures of his children and grandchildren, a portrait of his parents and other memories of his professional career remind visitors of his long and colourful life.
Rajnikanth’s long and celebrated career
Rajnikanth’s rise to superstardom was nothing short of cinematic. He made his acting debut in Apoorva Raagangal (1975) under the mentorship of director K. Balachander, who recognized his raw talent and unique screen presence. Over the decades, Rajnikanth carved a niche with his trademark style – punch dialogues, charismatic mannerisms, and larger-than-life portrayals that resonated deeply with audiences across generations.
His versatility allowed him to seamlessly shift between intense villainous roles in his early years to heroic characters that embodied hope and resilience. With landmark films like Baashha, Enthiran, and Kabali, he not only dominated Tamil cinema but also became a pan-Indian icon whose influence extended globally. Today, with over 160 films to his credit, Rajnikanth’s journey remains a symbol of how sheer talent and perseverance can transform destiny.
