The announcement of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan appearing together has created immense excitement among fans worldwide. Their reunion after 46 years marks a historic moment for Tamil cinema, reminding audiences of an era when both legends shared the screen frequently before becoming the towering figures they are today.
Their cinematic journey together began with Apoorva Raagangal in 1975, directed by K. Balachander. The film featured Kamal Haasan in the lead role and marked Rajinikanth’s debut, laying the foundation for two extraordinary careers. Between 1975 and 1979, the duo appeared together in 21 films across five languages : Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Hindi. These collaborations included lead roles, supporting characters and special appearances, reflecting their strong professional association during their early years.
Among their collaborations were bilingual productions such
- Thappu Thalangal (Tamil–Kannada)
- Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum (Tamil–Malayalam)
- Ninaithale Inikkum (Tamil–Telugu)
Several leading filmmakers had the distinction of directing both actors during this period. K. Balachander remains the most prominent, having directed them together in seven films:
- Apoorva Raagangal
- Anthuleni Katha
- Moondru Mudichu
- Avargal, Thappu Thalangal
- Ninaithale Inikkum
- Thillu Mullu
Other directors who helmed films featuring both actors include:
- K. Balachander
- C.V. Sridhar
- K. Viswanath
- Durai
- Mahendran
- SP. Muthuraman
- A. Bhimsingh
- Nelson
Now, director Nelson Dilipkumar joins this prestigious list, becoming the latest filmmaker to work with both icons in the same project, marking a new chapter in their shared legacy.
The duo also shared screen space with leading actresses of their time. Sripriya acted alongside both in six films, including Ilamai Oonjaladukirathu, Aadu Puli Aatam, Aval Appadithan and Natchathiram. Sridevi appeared with them in Moondru Mudichu, Pathinaru Vayathinile and Thayillamal Nannilai, while Jayaprada shared the screen with them in Anthuleni Katha and Ninaithale Inikkum.
In addition to full-length roles, both actors made guest appearances in films featuring the other in lead roles, reflecting their mutual respect and strong professional rapport.
Source : Rajini & Kamal Films Together , IMDb , The Indian Express
Image Credit : Rediff , The Indian Express , Pinterest
