Superstar Rajinikanth at 16 Vayathinelle Trailer Launch

Superstar Rajinikanth took part in the function held yesterday at the premises of the new-look Kamala Cinemas in Vadapalani to release the digitized trailer of 16 Vayathinile, one of his earlier hits. In fact, Rajini had played the villain in the film directed by veteran Bharathiraja. Kamal Haasan and Sridevi were the other artistes in the film, which many consider as a ‘milestone’ film in the history of Tamil films.

Leading Kollywood celebrities including Rajini, Kamal Haasan, Bharathiraja and K. Bhagyaraj took part in the function. Rajini and Kamal jointly released the trailer of the film. Speaking at the event, Rajini said “When Rajkannu met me a few days back to invite me to attend the trailer-launch of the digitized version of 16 Vayithinile, I asked him as to who would be the ultimate beneficiary of the re-release of the film.

“When Rajkannu replied that he would benefit, I assured him that I’d surely take part in the function. Rajkannu is a respected person in the industry who has plenty of self-esteem and behaves politely. He released the film on his own in 1977, neglecting criticism from certain quarters that the film might not do well. Kamal was already a star in those days and the film eventually did very well.

“When Kamal faced problems in releasing his Vishwaroopam early this year, Rajkannu said that he would re-release 16 Vayithinile and would donate the entire collections to Kamal to help him get out of the crisis. He’s a person who doesn’t want anyone to suffer and does everything possible to help others. I pray that 16 Vayithinile does very well in its re-release at least for Rajkannu’s huge heart

“Fortune is not permanent. It’s a welcome trend that old classics are re-released. I’m sure fans would make the re-release a huge success,” Rajini concluded.

Speaking at the trailer-launch of the digitized version of 16 Vayathinile, Bharathiraja said “It’s indeed an appreciable that both superstar Rajinikanth and ‘Ulaganayagan’ Kamal Haasan have made it to the trailer-launch. It shows their good heart to ensure that the producer should benefit out of the film’s re-release. I have known both Rajini and Kamal for the past many years and am happy that they retain their goodwill.

“16 Vayathinile was made at a budget of Rs.4.5 lakhs; Kamal was paid Rs.27000/-. When I was looking for a suitable actor to do the role of ‘Parattai’ in the film, I was told by somebody that an actor, who had been starring in Balachander’s films, would be perfect. In those days, Rajini would travel by a bike to the shooting spot. His speed would be awesome and he would often be spotted adjusting his unkempt hair.

“When I looked at him for the first time, I decided that he would be the one suitable for the character of ‘Parattai’. Then came the issue of his fee. I told him that it was an ‘art film’ and what he wanted as his fee. After thinking for a few seconds, he said Rs.5000 would be okay for him. In then bargained with him and brought down his fee to Rs.3000 out of which I still owe him Rs.500/-,” said Bharathiraja, much to the clapping of the audiences who had gathered.