Rajinikanth’s Enormous Popularity in Japan: The Story Behind It Superstar Rajinikanth, a stalwart in the Indian film industry, remains a bankable star even after decades. At 72, his charismatic performances continue to captivate fans.
With each film release, fans are sent into a frenzy, filling cinema halls and adorning hoardings with garlands.
Yet, did you know that Rajinikanth’s fame extends far beyond India’s borders? In Japan, he boasts an ardent following.
Origins of the Craze Rajinikanth’s rise to prominence in Japan can be attributed to his 1995 film “Muthu,” which hit Japanese theaters three years later.
Renamed “Odori Maharaja” (Dancing Maharaja) for its Japanese release, the film graced 50 screens across the country.
“Muthu” enjoyed a remarkable 23-week run in Japanese theaters, amassing a staggering $1.6 million and emerging as the highest-grossing Indian film in Japan.
Even India’s former Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, acknowledged the film’s reception in a speech to the Japanese parliament in 2006. His mention of “Odori Maharaja” led to applause from Japanese parliamentarians.
Following the success of “Muthu,” Rajinikanth’s “Darbar” also made waves in Japan, collecting over 230 million Yen at the box office. Released as “Dalbar Revenge” in July 2021, the film continued the trend.
The Enduring Fervor The excitement that surrounded “Muthu” and “Darbar” has now rekindled with the release of the 2023 film “Jailer.” A viral video shows a Japanese couple sharing their journey from Osaka to India solely to watch “Jailer.”
Yasuda Hidetoshi, leader of a Rajinikanth fan club in Japan, stated, “To see the ‘Jailer’ movie, we have come from Japan to Chennai.
” Even the Japanese Ambassador to India, Hiroshi Suzuki, was captured dancing to the beats of “Jailer’s” infectious song “Kaavaalaa,” featuring Tamannaah Bhatia and Rajinikanth.
Rajinikanth’s allure in Japan continues to captivate hearts, bridging cultural boundaries and demonstrating the universal appeal of his charisma and talent.
His upcoming film, “Lal Salaam,” directed by his daughter Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth, is eagerly awaited by fans worldwide.