The journey of Shivaji Rao Gaekwad to becoming the cinematic icon Rajinikanth is a legendary tale of humble beginnings. Yet, nestled within this well-known narrative is a poignant, lesser-known chapter of lost love and a pivotal act of faith involving Rs 500. This story, revealed by veteran actor-filmmaker Sreenivasan and corroborated by actor Devan, unveils the woman whose belief and financial support gave wings to Rajinikanth's acting dreams before she disappeared from his life.
The Fateful Meeting and a Budding Romance
Long before the title 'Superstar' was attached to his name, Rajinikanth worked as a bus conductor for the Bangalore Transport Service. Sreenivasan, his friend from the Madras Film Institute (now MGR Government Film and Television Training Institute), recounted this story to Kaumudy, which was originally narrated by Rajinikanth to his Baashha co-star Devan. It began like a scene from a film. A young woman attempted to board the bus via the rear entrance, leading to a disagreement with the conscientious conductor, Shivaji Rao. This initial argument, however, blossomed into a deep connection. The woman was Nirmala, an MBBS student.
Rajinikanth, who often performed in plays during his spare time, once invited Nirmala to watch him act. She was profoundly impressed by his talent. Later, when she saw an advertisement for the film institute, she became his biggest advocate. She insisted he should apply, convinced he had a bright future in cinema. Rajinikanth was hesitant, as his job was the sole income for his large family living in a small house. But Nirmala was persistent. "Don't worry about the money; I'll somehow arrange it for you," she assured him, her encouragement ultimately convincing him to take the leap.
The Rs 500 That Changed a Destiny and a Sudden Disappearance
Heeding her advice, Rajinikanth left his stable government job and moved to pursue his dreams. Nirmala provided the initial financial support, sending him money, including a crucial sum of Rs 500 that he left Bengaluru with. Sreenivasan noted that it was only later that his friends had to step in to support him. However, while Rajinikanth was at the institute, building the future she envisioned for him, tragedy struck. Nirmala vanished without a trace.
Devan, sharing the story with Manorama News, revealed that when Rajinikanth realized contact had stopped, he rushed back to Bengaluru to find her. He was met with a locked house. Neighbors had no concrete information, only mentioning that 'Nimmy's' family had moved away. It is believed her family discovered her relationship with a man from a modest background and relocated, cutting off all ties. "I really hope to see her at least once in this lifetime," Rajinikanth told Devan with tears in his eyes, as per Sreenivasan's account.
A Lifelong Search and Unanswered Questions
This event left a permanent mark on the superstar. Despite achieving unimaginable fame and wealth, the memory of Nirmala and her selfless act remained. Devan quoted a heartfelt lament from Rajinikanth: "Today, I am an actor; yet she hasn't come looking for me. It is my Nimmy (Nirmala) whom I look for wherever I go, be it the Himalayas or America. I look for her in the crowds." The superstar questioned why she never sought him out after his success, a mystery that continues to linger.
Sreenivasan reflected that while it would be easy for Nirmala to find Rajinikanth now, she may have built a new life. There might also be a fear that reconnecting could disrupt both their worlds. This untold story adds a deeply human and emotional layer to the Rajinikanth legend. It highlights how an act of profound belief and a sacrifice of Rs 500 from a loved one became the unexpected catalyst for the rise of India's biggest film superstar, a debt of gratitude that fame could never repay.
