Comparing Vijayakanth and Rajinikanth: A Tale of Action Hero Dominance in Tamil Nadu

The battle between Vijayakanth and Rajinikanth in Tamil Nadu's film industry has been long-standing. Both giants have left their mark on the cinema scene, each with their own unique characteristics that have shaped their careers. Despite their many similarities, there are crucial differences that define these two iconic actor-politicians.

Similarities

At the onset of their careers, both Vijayakanth and Rajinikanth shared several commonalities:

Neither are considered excellent actors in the traditional sense, particularly in their early days. Both are known for their action-packed, gimmick-driven filmography. Neither is distinguished by their physical appearance or looks. Both struggled with delivering dialogues effectively.

Differences

While they began in similar circumstances, the paths taken by Vijayakanth and Rajinikanth diverged over time, resulting in distinct approaches to their careers and public personas.

Rajinikanth's Journey

Rajinikanth's rise to stardom is a testament to his perseverance and hard work. Unlike Vijayakanth, who was sponsored by his father, Rajinikanth earned his way into the film industry as a bus conductor in Karnataka. Eventually, he transitioned to Tamil cinema and took on a dynamic character that captivated audiences.

Rajinikanth's acting style was often referred to as a 'style' where he excelled at certain types of genres. He mastered the action genre, and in a particular scene from the song 'Thaam Thakka Thayya Thakka Koothu,' one can observe his prowess. However, with age, his dance moves have become simpler, likely due to his advancing years.

Throughout his career, Rajinikanth was often seen as a copycat of MGR (M G Ramachandran), the charismatic and influential star of the 'mass hero' era. His early success was tied to specific formulas, including the hero intro song setup, comedy-action combos, and punchy dialogues. His approach was more reactionary, adapting to the opportunities presented to him.

Vijayakanth's Path

Unlike Rajinikanth, Vijayakanth received consistent support from his father, who continuously pushed for his films. This support was crucial in kickstarting his film career. Over time, Vijayakumaran showcased his ability to dance, becoming one of the best pure actor-dancers in Indian cinema. His early dance sequences in movies like 'Baasha' are a testament to his skill and charm.

While Vijayakanth was seen as a copycat of Rajinikanth's success formula, it was a conscious decision by Vijayakanth. He aimed to achieve more mainstream appeal and eventually enter politics, something his brother Rajinikanth had already explored. Vijayakanth's films often included political undertones, allowing him to condition his audience to view him as a future political leader. For instance, in his film 'Sarkar,' Vijayakumaran played a tech savvy protagonist who enters politics, clearly foreshadowing his future ambitions.

However, there is a contrasting element in their approach. Vijayakanth's spiritual side is less prominent, and he does not seem to falter with being labeled a 'copycat.' Rather, he embraces his status in the industry, and his films like 'Jailor' with all its stunts and action, continue to resonate with audiences.

Fans and Political Ambitions

Their fanbases also bear significant differences. Rajinikanth's fans were organically formed, driven by his natural charisma and alpha male appeal. His fans were also more spiritual, evident in the way he addressed his audiences. Even films like 'Baba,' which encapsulated his introspective journey towards politics and spirituality, received considerable attention.

On the other hand, Vijayakanth's fanbase was more politically oriented. This was largely because his fans believed that action heroes had the best chance to venture into politics, and they envisioned him as a future politician from the moment he began to act. His transition to politics through his films and fan clubs was seamless, reinforcing his narrative as a leader.

Both Rajinikanth and Vijayakanth have faced different trajectories in their careers, with Rajinikanth's spiritual side playing a crucial role in his public persona, while Vijayakanth's approach is more grounded in his success formula and political aspirations.

Conclusion

While Rajinikanth and Vijayakanth share a history of success and influence in Tamil Nadu's film industry, their paths have diverged significantly. Rajinikanth's spiritual journey, coupled with his natural charisma, makes him a figurehead for a certain kind of spiritual and political discourse. Vijayakanth, on the other hand, embraced his 'copycat' status and built his career on the back of action and a clear political mission.

Both have left indelible marks on the industry, and their influence continues to be felt in various ways. Whether one is viewed as a spiritual leader or a political actor, the legacy of Rajinikanth and Vijayakanth in Tamil Nadu remains a subject of immense fascination and analysis.