When Rajinikanth met his ‘first love’ while working as bus conductor in Chennai who pushed him for acting

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There’s no need for an introduction when it comes to Rajinikanth; he’s set a standard in Indian cinema with his long and successful career spanning over several decades. Even at 70 years old, this legendary actor still shines brightly among the stars. Interestingly, there was one individual who inspired him to enter the film industry – a secret he rarely shares.

When Rajinikanth spoke about his first love Nirmala’s influence on his career

In simpler terms, veteran actor Devan, who worked alongside Rajinikanth in the movie Baashha, previously disclosed a less publicized discussion they had, where Rajinikanth confided about his earliest romance during an emotional conversation.

In an interview with Manorama News back in 2019, Devan shared that his conversation with Rajinikanth happened following the completion of their filming and moving to their hotel for the evening.

Later on, Rajinikanth shared an intriguing story about how he crossed paths with a medical student named Nirmala while working as a bus conductor in Chennai. Their initial encounter took place when she was attempting to squeeze into the bus from the front entrance. When he attempted to prevent her, their conversation escalated into a lively debate.

Rajinikanth invited Nirmala to watch one of his plays

Initially, Rajini and Nirmala had an awkward beginning; however, they continued to cross paths and eventually formed a friendship. As time went on, the budding Tamil actor, who was juggling work as both a theater actor and a bus conductor, extended an invitation to Nirmala to watch him perform in one of his plays.

Nirmala arrived at the location punctually and caught the performance. Subsequently, the actor known as Coolie received a letter from the Adayar Film Institute in Chennai, confirming their acceptance into the institute. Yet, it wasn’t this individual who had submitted the application.

Eventually, Rajinikanth learned that Nirmala had submitted an application for him. She expressed, “Your acting skills are exceptional. I believe you’re truly unique and deserving of recognition. I dream of seeing you plastered across movie posters and towering as large cut-outs outside theaters. I wish for your fame to echo across India. The idea was sparked when I watched you perform in that play. Hence, I applied on your behalf. I strongly urge you to pursue acting.

Rajinikanth chose not to accept the proposal since he considered it too daring to quit his current position and move to Chennai. Additionally, such a decision would involve significant financial expenses.

However, Nirmala didn’t yield an inch. During their subsequent encounter, she passed Rajinikanth some funds and encouraged him to enroll in the film school. Eventually, he consented.

Rajinikanth never met Nirmala again after becoming successful

It so happened that upon Rajinikanth’s return from the film institute a few days later, he found himself entirely disconnected from Nirmala. Upon his arrival in Bangalore, he searched high and low for her, but it appeared as though she had departed, and even her house was securely locked.

Actor Devan recalled a time when Rajinikanth, affectionately known as Nimmy, was visibly emotional while talking about someone named Nirmala. He shared that even with his acting success, he continues to scan the crowds in search of her.

In a subsequent statement, the Coolie actor expressed his confusion, saying, “I search for her among the masses. Devan, why didn’t she visit me? Why isn’t she eager to meet me, despite my accomplishments?

Later in life, Rajinikanth went on to marry Latha Rangachari in the year 1981. Together they have two daughters named Aishwaryaa and Soundarya.

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2025-06-25 15:52