Jayabhuvaneshwari B
The Tamil film audience fraternity woke up to speculations about Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan coming together for a film helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, 46 years after their previous collaboration. While the news is yet to be confirmed, the reports have triggered a wave of excitement amongst fans, nonetheless.
Rajinikanth, who recently clocked 50 years in the film industry, made his debut in Apoorva Ragangal, starring Kamal Haasan and Srividya. Rajinikanth then starred with Kamal Haasan in many more films, especially as an antagonist, before finally making his solo debut. If this union materialises, it will undoubtedly be one of Tamil cinema’s grandest spectacles. But before the big reunion, here are 7 must-watch Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan films that defined Tamil cinema.
Apoorva Raagangal (1975)
While Ranjani, the daughter of Bhairavi, is attracted to Prasanna's father, Mahendran, Prasanna falls in love with the much older Bhairavi. Director: K Balachander. Also starring: Srividya, Sundarrajan, and Jayasudha.
Must listen to: ‘Kelviyin Nayagane’
Moondru Mudichu (1976)
The film centres on two roommates who fall in love with an 18-year-old girl. Director: K Balachander. Also starring: Sridevi, N Viswanath.
Must listen to: ‘Vasantha Kaala’
Avargal (1977)
This triangular love story centres on a woman who finds herself torn between her former violent husband, who is purportedly rehabilitated and wants to reconcile with her, and the man she fell in love with. Director: K Balachander. Also starring: Sujatha, Ravikumar, and Leelavathi.
Must listen to: ‘Kaatrukkenna Veli’
16 Vayathinile (1977)
It centres on 16-year-old schoolgirl Mayil's talents and weaknesses as well as the difficulties and triumphs she experiences. Director: Bharathirajaa. Also starring: Sridevi, Gandhimathi, Sathyajith, and Goundamani.
Must listen to: ‘Chendoora Poove’
Aadu Puli Attam (1977)
The tale of a young man who aspires to be a police officer but instead chooses to rebel against the force and lead a band of robbers. He joins the police and apprehends the crooks after realising that his pals are far worse than thieves. Director: SP Muthuraman. Also starring: Sripriya, Sangeetha.
Must listen to: ‘Vaanukku Thanthai’
Ilamai Oonjal Aadugiradhu (1978)
Prabhu, an orphan, is cared for by Murali's family, who also secures him a job at their business. Murali becomes engaged to the same woman as Prabhu, and Padma, his sweetheart, starts to drift apart. Director: CV Sridhar. Also starring: Sripriya, Jayachitra.
Must listen to: ‘Ennadi Meenakshi’
Aval Appadithan (1978)
The storyline centres on Manju and the challenges she encounters in her life as a result of her romantic engagements, which lead to her becoming hostile and pessimistic towards men. Director: C Rudraiah. Also starring: Sripriya, Sivachandran, and Saritha.
Must listen to: ‘Uravugal Thodarkathai’