Rajinikanth, born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, is now one of Indian cinema's biggest stars, with a net worth reportedly around Rs 500 crore. His early life was very different. Before films, he did several hard jobs to get through tough times.

Rajinikanth's Struggle Story

He worked as a coolie, a carpenter and even carried rice sacks to manage financial hardships.

The actor first worked as a coolie to support his family and pay for his studies. After school, he took up the job of a carpenter.

Later, he joined the Bangalore Transport Service (BTS) as a bus conductor. He was good at the job, and he was naturally charming. People who rode his bus still remember how stylish he looked when he whistled to hand out tickets.

How Rajinikanth Entered Movies?

A friend pushed him to try acting. In 1973, he joined the Madras Film Institute, even though his family was against it. He also struggled with the Tamil language while learning the craft.

He later did stage plays. One day he met director K Balachander, who offered him a small role. He made his Tamil debut in 1975 with Apoorva Raagangal, led by Kamal Haasan.

His path was not smooth. He faced setbacks, took a break and gave a string of flops. Each time, he came back stronger.

Rajinikanth started as a supporting actor in a Kamal Haasan film and went on to become the superstar of Tamil cinema. He has acted in about 170 films over more than five decades.

(Image: X/@Thalapthy_Rama)

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Loved My Bus Conductor Job: Rajinikanth

Rajinkanth, often called Thalaivar is now getting ready for the release of Jailer 2, after the huge success of the first part. It collected a total worldwide gross of Rs 604.50 crore, according to Sacnilk.

Speaking at the Jailer 2 Super Show, the superstar said that despite all the fame, he has never really connected with his larger-than-life image. He added that he still sees himself as a bus conductor.

"I love acting, of course. But I loved my bus conductor job much more than that. Those five years as a conductor were truly amazing. I still miss it. So, deep down, I believe I am a conductor and always will be."

He continued, "To be frank, I still can't identify with superstardom and all the fame. That's why I go to Bengaluru once in a while. When I see that bus, it brings happiness to me. When I see that khaki dress, my eyes tear up without me realising it. I identify myself as a bus conductor."

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His words give a small look into the life he led before he became one of Indian cinema's biggest stars.

FAQ

1. What is the estimated net worth of Rajinkanth?

Rajinikanth is one of the highest-earning actors in the country. According to Celebrity Net Worth, he has a massive of $50 million (Rs 474.46 crore).

2. How many movies has Rajinikanth starred in?

The actor has starred in over 170 films across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Bengali cinema.