Rajinikanth: The Superstar Grandfather

Beyond his iconic status as one of Indian cinema’s most revered figures, Rajinikanth has consistently demonstrated a heartwarming and grounded persona. This was exemplified recently when he took on the role of a doting grandfather in the most endearing manner.

His daughter, Soundarya Rajinikanth, shared a delightful anecdote about her son, Ved, who was reluctant to attend school on a particular morning. In a gesture that would melt hearts, the superstar stepped in to transform a mundane school day into an extraordinary experience. Rajinikanth not only accompanied his grandson to school but also surprised Ved’s classmates with a personal appearance.

This heartwarming incident, captured and shared by Soundarya on social media, has resonated deeply with fans worldwide. It offers a rare glimpse into the private life of a public figure, revealing a side of Rajinikanth that is both humble and endearing. The image of the superstar grandfather interacting with young children has been met with overwhelming admiration and respect.

As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Rajinikanth’s upcoming film, “Jailer,” directed by TJ Gnanavel, this heartwarming episode serves as a poignant reminder that beneath the larger-than-life cinematic persona lies a man deeply devoted to his family.

OTT Platforms: A Launchpad for Budding Filmmakers

The landscape of filmmaking is undergoing a significant shift, with OTT (Over-the-Top) platforms emerging as a powerful launchpad for talented directors. This shift challenges the traditional notion that directing feature films is the only path to recognition and success in the industry.

The talent pool on OTT is brimming with fresh voices, and captivating storytelling is taking center stage. These talented directors are utilizing this platform to showcase their unique visions and exceptional narrative abilities. Their success on OTT is paving the way for exciting opportunities in the world of feature films.

Several filmmakers have successfully leveraged the power of OTT to gain recognition and transition to directing major stars in feature films.

Shiv Rawail, director of the critically acclaimed Netflix limited series “The Railway Men,” is a prime example. Having previously served as an assistant director on “Dhoom 3,” his success on OTT earned him the chance to helm “Alpha” for Yash Raj Films. This highly anticipated spy thriller stars Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh and is part of the banner’s established spy universe.

Suman Kumar, a seasoned writer on hit series like “Farzi,” “The Family Man,” and “Guns & Gulaabs,” is another name to watch. Having established himself as a compelling storyteller, he is gearing up to make his feature film directorial debut with “Raghu Thatha,” starring Keerthy Suresh. The film promises to be a powerful story about a woman’s fight to save her village.

Dude Vicky, a filmmaker with a unique background as a former YouTuber, has successfully transitioned to web series directing. His talent has now earned him the opportunity to direct the highly sought-after actress Nayanthara in “Mannan Gatti 1960.” This project signifies his potential to make a significant mark in mainstream cinema.

Actresses are increasingly open to collaborating with fresh talent emerging from the OTT scene. This trend is fostering a vibrant environment for new voices to flourish.

Kriti Sanon exemplifies this trend. Not only did she act in the film “Do Patti,” but she also served as the film’s producer. Directed by debutant Sashank Chaturvedi, the film also features the established actress Kajol. This collaboration highlights Kriti’s commitment to providing opportunities for promising filmmakers.
The rise of OTT platforms as a launchpad for talented directors is a welcome development for the film industry. It fosters diversity, innovation, and a more meritocratic approach to filmmaking, ultimately enriching the viewing experience for audiences worldwide.