The Best Seller & much Elated Creator - blog EXCLUSIVE

An exclusive interview with Dr.Gayathri Sreekanth on post launch scenario of the biography - The Name is Rajinikanth

Fantabulous sales

Ever since the release of the biography 'The Name is Rajinikanth', the book shops reported fantabulous sales. Like any Superstar’s movie producer – this book’s publisher too laughing all his way to the bank. At this juncture, I wanted some inputs for all of you straight from the horse’s mouth itself. So, I sought appointment and met Dr.Gayathri on Sunday at her residence.

Note: I promised her that there will be no run-of-the-mill questions and the chat will be only for a few minutes about post launch scenario. So, after congratulating her for the splendid job I directly switched to my questions. I think this is the first ever interview of the author after the book is launched. I am not accustomed to such interviews or shooting questions. So, kindly excuse me if it is not up to your expectation.

- Sundar

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Excerpts of my chat with her.

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How is the sales of the book?

In one word - Amazing. All the 20,000 copies printed by publisher have sold out. All the printed copies have exhausted from the publisher and he has got re-orders. And the second edition of another 10,000 copies has already hit the market. Most of the outlets sold out the first edition and now started selling second edition. Truly this is a phenomenon. I feel much elated and excited.

It has been declared as Best Seller of 2008 in non-fiction category.

Has Superstar read the book? What he said?

Yes he has read it and said that I have done a great job. He has suggested including more incidents on his vibes with spirituality.

Greatest compliment?

From fellow writers. Particularly from late Sujatha sir. He completely read my script and congratulated me.

When would Tamil version hit the market?

Probably by April end or May beginning. Presently I am winding up the Tamil version.

Any additions or omissions?

Yes. I am planning to include some chapters on his vibes with politics and his influence in fans life. And there would be a separate chapter which would speak on Sivaji’s phenomenal success alone.

Will its release be a bigger event like English version?

Definetely. And much more bigger than English version’s launch. Planning to invite Superstar himself. I hope he will turn up this time.

Why Superstar was not there in the English version launch?

Oh…he said to me the previous day of the launch that he is unlikely to turn up since it is my function and I alone should be given importance. Moreover, he pointed out that if he turns up, the media focus would be only on him and everybody would praise him sky high which he is uncomfortable with. Finally he agreed to send his daughter Soundharya.

They said that Big B has been invited for the launch?

He will release the book in Hindi and other languages in Mumbai sometimes in May.

They say there are mistakes in the book.

They are just editing mistakes and typos. They have been corrected.

Any unforgettable moment during this mission

My meeting and conversation with Mr.Rajinikanth. Its really unforgettable.

Once again congratulations for the good job and thank you for sparing your precious time for this interview.

Its my pleasure. Thanks.

Rajini's simplicity in Kuselan shoot

The fact in the title is once again ascertained by Superstar in Kuselan shooting at Hyderabad.
In times, where even second grade actors demand luxuries in shooting spot and torture producers, Superstar who carries the entire film in his shoulders, has discarded the caravan offered to him by Kuselan unit. Pls check the image attached. Click to ZOOM and read.
Actors who copy his style should try to copy his character too. Superstar's fans don't bother anybody imitating Rajini. But they should imitate him, in all his qualities including his simplicity, generosity etc.
- Sundar

Superstar sets good example for other actors

You can evaluate an actor's social responsibility by just knowing how he is keeping his servants. There have been lots of stories doing rounds in Kollywood how some actors kept their servants discarding basic amenities and working condition privileges.

While Sathyanarayana (All India Rajini Fan Club President) was hospitalized because of some renal problems, Superstar visited him in the hospital and also extended all medical and moral support he needed. And also he took care of the medical expenses. He also instructed him to take care of his health and he shall look after the fan club activities with the help of others in mandapam. Even now, Sathy has been instructed not to strain too much and stay away from works. (just keeping in mind his health) While Sathy's case is this, a famous investigation magazine reported that the Fan club president & general secretary of a famous actor-turned-legislator, is suffering from the same renal problem but the busy politican has not time to take care of his fan club president.

Today Daily Thanthi- Friday Malar has come up with a small bit news which says :

A good act without publicity

Superstar Rajini as usual, without publicity, has done a moral act and has set a good example for other actors.

Each and every workers of Raghavendra Mandapam have been offered an insurance policy by Superstar recently. All are insured for a hefty pack and even the last grade worker too has been insured for the same amount as that of others. A true act of equality!!

http://dailythanthi.com/magazines/veli_snippets.htm

- Sundar

Nostalgia : Superstar's secret Girivalam

Superstar is very much fond of spiritual sojourn and that too in disguise burying his status and identity. He mingles with common man and seeks the divine blessings. This happened a lot and still happening. Only a few accounts are coming out for our knowledge. Unknown is an ocean in this regard.

This came in Ananda Vikatan, during the year 2003 when Superstar went to Thiruvannamalai temple in a secret visit for Girivalam.

The crowd identified him and he had tough time escaping from their clutches. Then he went to temple.

You all know that lots of fans or people who meet Superstar fell at his feet seeking blessings. But he always feels uncomfortable towards it. It is only in wedding ceremonies, Superstar agrees to it.

But his fans or his followers, who keep him in a status of demi god fell at his feet for blessings. During one such incident, he became furious and that makes this series of Flash from the Past.

A person identified him and fell at his feet where Superstar became furious. Read the scanned attachment uploaded in the following link:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/rajinifans/Flash_from_the_past/TVMalai_VisitJ.jpg

Thanks to all for your support and comments towards my blog.

Thiruvannamalai temple photo by Pandiyan, Flickr.com

- Sundar

Superstar's reaction over the controversy

Superstar keeps track of all important news speculated about him in media through his trustworthy sources and they are being sent for his notice whenever he visits Raghavendra Mandapam.

When the land issue broke out intially he was in Kuselan shooting at Hyderabad. He was informed about the controversy and how his name is being speculated in that.

Superstar is well known for his commitment and attachment towards a project, once he starts acting in it. Nothing can deviate him from that mood. So, as usual he brushed aside the report and concentrated on the shooting and movie alone.

Even when the magazine continued its malicious propaganda he is said to informed his circles that he is not bothered about anything as everything was done perfectly and legally. And reports say that he is much aware of Kumudam's intention - that is to make him speak about this. He is not bothered about giving an explanation. But this could be repeated by other magazines also to make him speak or issue statements for them. And this would go non-stop.

Some of his supporters seems to have hinted out a defamation suit against the concerned source. But he is hesitant. I could say that Rajini sir is one of the famous actors who has not sued any magazine in his career. (Yes...of course in his earlier days a few received direct handling)

Correct me if i am wrong!

- Sundar

Selfless leader & regained follower!!

The above was an article from Aval Vikatan a few years ago. I remember reading it in Rajinifans.com that time. Later when i was searching it, i couldn't find since it was moved/deleted.

Some of you may have read it already. This is for those who didn't. Anyhow, i was strenuously looking for it, to share with my friends and you. Finally one of my buddies, Krishna Kumar from West Mambalam gave me this. And am sharing with you. Thanks to him.

Superstar brings his crazy fan back into normalcy
The article says how Superstar brought his much crazy fan (he is a doctor) back into family life and also proves that how he is taking care of his fans and their life.

An ideal leader
In the ages, where leaders or actors EXPLOIT their followers, this sets a good example for an ideal leader who demeans himself for his follower's benefit. The intro has been provided herewith as small image. (click that to ZOOM and read) For the complete article click the photobucket link which i have presented below.

Complete article:

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh12/onlysuperstar/AVUFinal1.jpg

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh12/onlysuperstar/AVUFinal2.jpg

- Sundar
(Liked the above article? Please share your thoughts. Click the comments section below)

Kumudam proven false; Now tries to twist the issue

Initially I don’t want to post this news. Even though I neglect this issue, surely it is again going to become hotter in websites and papers in a few days. So, I decided to post here. Atleast you will be surely aware of the ultimate happenings around Superstar.

A comma after ‘the end’

The land controversy came to an end as minister Suresh Rajan issued a press statement after a thorough investigation quoting that Superstar didn’t evade any tax and nothing was done illegal in the registration process.

Pizaippu nadakunamae vaera enna seiyya?

But Kumudam which got applied tons of coal on its face has now twisted the issue to a different dimension to prevent its name.

The latest issue headlines reads: “Law hits Jayalalitha; but bends on Rajini.”

It has said that the rule of law was made bent for Rajini keeping in mind his fame and CRORES of fans and alleges that government took action against Jayalalitha for a similar land issue. And guess what, this happened several years ago. Kumudam is just stirring the buried and forgotten issues and acts as if it is saviour of law. What a comedy is, this issue has been disposed off even by Jaya.

While reading the article I found that the only intention of Kumudam is to make Superstar speak about the land controversy thereby getting a life time mileage for the magazine. I also could spot its act of vengeance towards him. (Oru nalla mansuhana eppadiyellam paduthuraanga paarunga…ch….ch..)

Since Kumudam is a media giant nobody including government and thalaivar would go against it. (I heard that Kumudam group itself has some land related issues where they have purchased many acres near Sriperumbudur and other parts of the state)

Since another media is involved, no other media has come forward in support for Rajini and to speak in favour of him. Dailies including Maalai Malar and Thanthi just provide news. Not analysis. Junior Vikatan is tightlipped and it is mere busy promoting Vijayakanth again and again.

Click here : KUMUDAM's earlier comedy on Rajini related issue

Consequences may be:

1) Jaya who is in good terms now may completely ignore this. (You know Superstar greeted her for her recent birthday)

2) Few days back while the controversy ended, PMK alleged that government machinery turned soft towards Rajini and the minister’s explanation is not convincible. So, the party and its mokkai tv may again take this issue up.

3) Rajini may be forced to issue a statement regarding this.

Note – Positive accounts: If you take positive accounts on the happenings – (1) The rumour that Superstar invests only in Karnataka has become false (2) Again after a gap Superstar’s name is being spelt along with Jaya who is a Chief Ministerial candidate. This will keep Rajini’s political currents in LIVE amidst public. (3) Kumudam has admitted that Superstar has CRORES of fans.

Ultimate note – Boycott Kumudam: I know that I am giving a good mileage to Kumudam unnecessarily. So, an act of atonement (praayachittham), here afterwards I have decided to stop buying Kumudam and Kumudam reporter forever also my blog won't contain any news related to them. Also I’ve requested my friends and close circles to boycott the group’s magazines completely. This is very hard to me since I am an ardent reader of Kumudam for the past 12 years. Anyhow, for thalaivar I am ready to do any sacrifice.

Final word to Kumudam:

One of my friends spoke to Kumudam office and told them: “You people are in a petty calculation that, your sales will increase by this. Yes. Surely. But only for a few issues. But on the other end you are losing regular readers like me. Decide whom you want: temporary readers who just buy for this controversy or we the regular readers who buy Kumudam without the knowledge of each issue’s content?

As I said already surely Superstar’s fame and name will go one step up in people’s hearts while this issue ENDS.

For those missed : Pls click here to see Kumudam's real face with pic evidence

- Sundar

AVM shares profit with its employees - Indian Express

Like Superstar in real life, his movie Sivaji too faced lots of hurdles and negative propaganda (by a section of media) and finally hit the bulls eye.

Records and more records

If my collection of papers and news cuttings of Sivaji records, were piled - it will go up to a two storey building. So, whenever i read something negative about Sivaji or its success i become tensed than AVM or director Shankar. (even some of you too would have experienced this)

Life before and after Sivaji

Each and every theatres and distributors made umpteen times of profit to their investment on Sivaji. Many theatres renovated, repaired DTS and aircons and witnessed Houseful boards after two years gap. A small example: Employees of a theatre in Chennai who looked depressed earlier - sported looks with minor chains and bracelets later, after Sivaji's release!!

Congrats AVM

Eversince i heard about this Sivaji bonus news - i was looking for a printed evidence from a leading Media house. Thanks to New Indian Express for providing the same. Today Indian Express (Indulge) has said that AVM is to pay its employees a hefty pack of bonus because of Sivaji's super success. Congrats AVM and its employees.

* Click the newspaper image to ZOOM

- Sundar

Robot varudhu oram po – a distinct fan & an auto!!

If MGR was a rage among rikshawalas – it is our Superstar for auto drivers. The moment Superstar’s new movie announced or strongly speculated – you can see the movie’s name painted/imprinted in countless autos all over Tamil Nadu especially in Chennai city.

Canvas becomes black board

As Rajini fans started switching over to society friendly mode of celebrations – these auto drivers too have started thinking differently. Why not use the movie name or Superstar’s name for a good cause? Or use the rear canvas for something which is meaningful?

Messageful and meaningful autos

As a result, we could find some interesting and at the same time useful inspirations. These ranges from Superstar’s quotes, one liners, punch dialogues. Why, even some print Thirukural and relate it to Superstar and his life. (I have seen many Thirukural autos in the city like this!)

Sambo Siva Sambo, ROBOT varudhu oram po

Recently I came across one such auto in the city. I was awestruck by the message it carried in the canvas along with Robot promo – ‘Sambo Siva Sambo, ROBOT varudhu oram po.’ I speeded my bike and went parallel to him and requested him to halt for a few seconds for a photograph.

Just ZOOM the picture and read the words

1) In the back canvas there was a quote which highlighted the importance of education.

2) Another quote stressed the importance of service to poor – “Hands which serve poor are holier than the hands which pray in temple.” (How much TRUE these words are…!!)

3) Importance of reading books and maintaining library – “Instead of building street corner temples, we should build library, which would open the eyes of knowledge”

It is very much pleasing to see such a ‘hit on the nail’ promo for education, service and knowledge by a fan of Superstar Rajini.

A salute to Mr.Socrates Uyirovian, the distinct fan and concerned auto driver. Those who speak other way about fan clubs and fans would feel shame if happened to see this.

Really this ‘not-so-educated’ auto brother, is several steps ahead all of us….

Any objection friends?

* Click the above photograph to ZOOM and read the texts painted in the auto

- Sundar

A handicapped fan’s minutes with Superstar

Millions of fans yearn take a snap with Thalaivar and it is their life-time goal too (apart from professional goals). But only a few of them turn lucky enough get that golden opportunity. If you happen to listen their moments with Superstar, you would be pleased much more and Superstar would raise one step up in your heart.

Herewith I explain one such experience of a handicapped fan who met Superstar and took a photograph with him.

This January, Superstar met fans from various parts of the city in Raghavendra Mandapam - after a long gap.

When the news broke out that he’s meeting fans – it became a tough job to control the thronging fans on the same day and even in subsequent days. So, the photo session was temporarily shelved.

Interesting and heartwarming accounts

Anyway, those who went there to take photo with Superstar shared many interesting and heartwarming incidents.

This fan friend is a handicapped boy who is working in a Tailoring unit in Ambattur. I just interpret here what he said to me:

“Though I am an ardent fan of Superstar for the past two decades, I didn’t get the opportunity to take a snap with him and I never thought I could get that opportunity one day in my life. Any how I was affirmative.

Thousands of other fans were waiting…

When I heard through my friends that thalaivar would be taking snaps on a particular day, I went to Raghavendra Mandapam by 8.30 a.m. Guess what? Already there were thousands of other fans waiting to take snaps with Superstar. The crowd was increasing as clock started rolling. Additional police personnel were deployed to control the crowd.

Initially fans took snaps with thalaivar in singles. Later it was changed to doubles (two persons) as queue was seen unending. For each minute, nearly three pairs took photos.

Yogis and siddhas

The photo session was held in his Mandapam Office room. The room (a very small hall) was very simple but soulful with various Yogis and Siddhas pictures decorating the wall. (Superstar has a private room here where he meets his friends and others.)

We all were standing in a neat queue controlled by mandapam staff. We were allowed in doubles for the shoot.

Unexpected gift

When my term came – I limped towards Superstar (I am handicapped and substituted with artificial leg). Thalaivar saw me and understood at once about me. He asked the other person who came as my pair to remain there and asked me to come ALONE and then embraced me for a while and posed for single straight snap. When I fell at his feet for ashirvad, he said not to do that and made me comfortable to stand with him and also flew his arm around my back and gave pose to snap and ensured that it has come well and also he is satisfied.

Thalaivaa…..what a noble man you are. My friends were jealous on me and now I am a hero in my street and locality.”

Spot report from other fans who were there that time:

1) The whole area become jammed and extra police were deployed.

2) The photo studios did roaring business during the days when snaps taken.

3) The shop owners in and around mandapam had excellent business and their goods sold out.

4) Bypassers wondered what’s cooking there since the crowd is huge. When heard about photo session – they too joined it.

5) Some auto drivers who passed the place by that time – simply left there autos and they too joined the session.

6) Some fans who already took photos –came there consecutively. Superstar identified such a few fans and warned them not to waste his time or others’ time.

7) All fans were made to wait inside mandapam.

The subsequent photo sessions were cancelled later since many other district and rural fans started thronging in cabs and van to mandapam for photo shoot.

Note: To see the press coverage of the above photo session happenings, pls click the below link. You can see the newspaper image of Maalai Malar.

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh12/onlysuperstar/Vasu_MMalar.jpg

- Sundar

Rajini bought land to build charity hospital - Dinamalar

If God is with us, who can be against us - the golden quote has been proved once again by Superstar.

Superstar sets a good example to all

Today Dinamalar has said that Superstar purchased the land in a Guide Value more than the actual one (nobody would have done this in Tamil Nadu) which has given government a good PROFIT and not Loss. The officials could find nothing illegal in the registration.

Land was for Hospital to poor

Moreover, he has purchased the land to build Hospital for the poor. And another interesting fact: he came in disguise during lunch hours and signed the documents. "Erimalaigal en kaalil thoolaga Sakthi kodu...."

*Refer to Dinamalar (19/03/2008) above. Click on the image to ZOOM.

Note: As said by one of my friend, while the controversy ends, Superstar's fame and good name would have raised some steps up only and PMK is gonna to end with egg face.

- Sundar

Superstar gets clean chit in land purchase

As expected, preliminary investigation by Government officials has given a clean chit to Superstar in the land purchase issue.

Maalai Malar today said that the land was registered more than the guide value - which brought profit alone to government and not loss. Check the following link. In a day or two we would get a complete picture. Now we can sigh a relief.

*The picture above is from one of Superstar's Rishikesh (Himalayas) trip. Can u spot him?

http://www.maalaimalar.com/asp/news/dis_news_article.asp?artid=256858

- Sundar

Rajini vs Ramadoss again? What's going on!!

Friends,

It all started with Kumudam Reporter's controversial coverstory from which Ramadoss owned TV lifted and made headlines in their news. (refer to my earlier post)

When nobody showed interest or make it a issue....it was only Ramadoss owned ..............TV made it headlines yesterday and today and also urged action against Superstar for this alleged land issue.

Now Tamil Nadu government has announced that action would be taken if concerned found guilty. (It was a good joke to see only PMK tv's mike in that interrogation with State Minister responsible for Document Registration)

Kumudam Reporter's intention is quite understandable. They just wanted to create furore and thereby increase mileage for a few issues. (Hidden intention is: Just to give Vijayakanth a clean chit by pulling Rajini too in this land controversy! Both Vikatan and Kumudam commonly have agenda to make Vijayakanth as Chief Minister at any cost!!!) But what is wrong with Ramadoss tv? When nobody took care of this why it zoomed in this?

The reasons are quite understandable. Any one or more of these reasons may suit the situation.

1) Just to remind public that a tv channel for them is existing. By zooming this issue, the channel may get a better attention.

2) Ramadoss doesn't want to fight with Vijayakanth whom he considers not equivalent to fight with.

3) Just to make people think bad about actors and thereby putting an indirect check to them.

4) May be in a thought that Rajini would never care if he is targeted again.

What would be Superstar's reaction:

1) Silence

2) More silence

3) Further more silence.

4) If national media takes the issue: he may come with an explanation on the same and surely not hitting at PMK or Ramadoss.

Ok....what Rajini fans and loyalists think?

1) Superstar is not the person who would undervalue the property just to evade tax.

2) He would have followed the rules strictly. Just news hungry media is making noise.

3) Though the controversy may be false, the fact is true. That is, we have come to know that Superstar has purchased land in Tamil Nadu. We can give fitting reply to detractors who always allege that Rajini invests only in Karnataka. (Kettadhulayum oru nalladhu!)

4) Rajini is not Ramadoss' enemy now. It is actually Vijayakanth who won in their belt and slowly eating their votebank. Instead of targeting him or devising plans to check his growth - why PMK is again teasing Rajini? Do they take him for granted?

5) Rajini should not let this chance. He should teach a lesson permanently to PMK and Co. We don't bother Kuselan or Robot. Let's sort out this issue first !!

What common public think:

1) What if Rajini pays or evades his land taxes or duty? We have 1001 problems to face each day. This politicians have no work. These actors don't know what to do with the money.

Finally what i think:

1) I just wanted to remind Superstar, his own words during a press meet in 2004 : "When somebody hit me when i am not guilty - i will hit them back 100 times. If you say it is wrong - i would repeat that for another 100 times"

Note : Dinamalar which has the only agenda of promoting Vijayakanth and his party - has put this Rajini's land issue in front page today and that too in header section with much importance - as if it is the problem stirring the entire nation. We could recollect how Dinamalar downplayed Sivaji's success and cooked news to spoil the movie's merit. Why...even it ignored completely Kuselan news and its launch. If it continues like this - it has to remain in the 3rd position forever. (Thanthi, Dinakaran sales are higher than Dinamalar)

Ultimate note: I spoke to my media friends who know the core of this controversy. They revealed that Superstar didn't do anything beyond rules or regulations. Infact he went to the registrar office there that time. And they say this issue broke out because of internal politics in the registrar office. And this has nothing against him and all these are just create a furore and controversy and gain mileage in that by respective elements.

- Sundar

Sonnadhu nee thaana? Sol...Sol...Sol...

Hi friends,

Before going to the nucleus of the matter, just an intro....

Weekly two magazines should hit the stands. Where to go for the news....and that too hot and controversial news each time?

Readers are bored to see Vijayakanth, Kalaignar, JJ, Ramadoss in cover page. The sales is too very low now (almost zero). What to do?

Ada....there's always Rajini to rescue...

But what to put with Rajini? Politics? Oh...we have covered it enough times....
About Robot? The movie has not yet started....

Kuselan? Junior Vikatan has already cameup with that.....how to copy straightly?

Ok.....any other controversies related Rajini?

Ok...let's try this....Tamil people will buy the book just for Rajini in cover page. We shall ask apology later.

Kumudam Reporter team just thought and came-up with a cover story which claimed that Rajini bought a few acres at Arani in Tamil Nadu and allegedly he hide the market value and registered the land to avoid duty and also used his influence and got registration of the land without official formalities.

In the left side, you find the cover of one-year-old Reporter of which said that Superstar would quit filmdom by 2008. But you know what is happening now....he is acting in 3 films like ever before.

Note1: Just click and zoom the above image to know how much true the news would be....

Note2: Even if the above news taken true, it is clear that Superstar is not investing all his money in Karnataka....a false allegation repeated countless times!!!!

- Sundar