The on-screen clashes between legendary Tamil actors Raghuvaran and Rajinikanth in movies such as “Baasha,” “Muthu,” “Mr. Bharath,” and “Oorkavalan” were a hallmark of their cinematic careers. However, beyond the silver screen, a close and amiable friendship existed between the two. In a recent interview, Raghuvaran’s brother, Ramesh, shed light on their camaraderie and unveiled the pivotal guidance that Raghuvaran bestowed upon Rajinikanth during the zenith of his career.
During a conversation with Galatta Tamil, Ramesh shared a glimpse of the interactions between Rajinikanth and his late brother. He disclosed, “There was an instance when Rajini sir joined Raghuvaran for lunch and engaged in a casual chat. Even when Rajini sir was at the pinnacle of his stardom, he sought Raghuvaran’s counsel on his next steps.”
Ramesh then unveiled the valuable counsel Raghuvaran extended to the superstar. “My brother advised him, ‘Sir, it’s time to bid adieu to the fighting roles in your films. Instead, venture into portraying a peacemaker by curbing the street fights that unfold outside the realm of cinema. This transformation will elevate you to greater heights.’ Rajini sir, in his quintessential style, would chuckle at this,” Ramesh recounted.
Raghuvaran’s passing in 2008 at the age of 49 left a void in the entertainment industry. One of his final significant successes was the 2007 movie “Sivaji,” in which he starred alongside Rajinikanth. Tragically, his film “Aatadista” was released shortly after his demise.
In an earlier interview on “Koffee with Anu” in 2006, Raghuvaran had candidly expressed his biggest regret – “becoming an actor.” He had revealed, “I would have been happier earning a livelihood as a farmer. The modest earnings from selling my harvest would have sufficed. I would have found solace gazing at my crops, yearning for rainfall. Tending to chickens, sheep, and dogs while feeding them would have sufficed. I would have needed just one companion. That’s the essence of life. What we’re living now is not.”
The enduring friendship between Rajinikanth and Raghuvaran, despite their on-screen confrontations, underscores the multifaceted connections that often weave the fabric of the entertainment industry.
