- By Ridhi Suri
- Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:24 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Recently, there were reports suggesting that Superstar Rajinikanth might team up with the visionary director Mani Ratnam for a new film. However, actor Suhasini Mani Ratnam has addressed these swirling rumours, providing some clarity on the situation. Currently, Rajinikanth is appearing in director TJ Gnanavel's Vettaiyan, which is showing in theaters worldwide.
While excitement continues to build around the possibility of Mani Ratnam collaborating with Rajinikanth after 'Thug Life,' starring Kamal Haasan, it’s worth noting that this would mark over thirty years since their last project, 'Thalapathi' (1991), a contemporary take on the Mahabharata. Although there are hints of an announcement possibly coming on Rajinikanth's birthday in December, it seems that these claims may not have substantial backing.
Mani's wife, Suhasini Maniratnam, has stated that there have been no discussions about this potential collaboration. "No, I don’t think even Rajinikanth and Mani know about it (laughs). It’s only people who’re writing about it," she told News18.
Suhasini expressed concern about how the enduring stardom of icons like Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan may be hindering younger actors from making their mark in the Tamil film industry. She pointed out that the youngest leading male star in both the Malayalam and Tamil industries is currently 41-year-old Dhanush. "I’m worried about the young male actors. Between the Malayalam and Tamil film industries, our youngest top hero is 41 years old! I’m talking about Dhanush. What happened to all the Karthiks, the Prabhus, and the Mohans in the Tamil film industry?" she added.
"They did so well in their 20s, but today’s actors in their 20s are losing out on their prime years. They aren’t being noticed or offered good stories. Ashok Selvan, only now, is penetrating and coming forward. As for Harish Kalyan, only two of his films have done well, Lubber Pandhu and Parking. There’s no place for young male actors in Tamil cinema. Fans are going for films of actors who’re above 40," she claimed.
Meanwhile, Mani and Rajinikanth's last collaboration was the iconic 1991 film 'Thalapathi,' which also starred Malayalam superstar Mammootty. The movie was inspired by the friendship between Karna and Duryodana from the Mahabharata. While it would be wonderful to see these legends reunite on screen, it seems that fans will have to wait a bit longer.