During the recent promotions for the Telugu movie Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, director and actor S.J. Suryah made a statement that resonated deeply with fans of Indian cinema. He declared that every successful commercial movie made since 1995 has drawn inspiration from the iconic Tamil film Baashha—a movie that redefined heroism in Indian cinema. According to Suryah, Baashha not only set the template for the quintessential commercial blockbuster but also became the gold standard by which all subsequent films of this genre are measured.
In Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, the protagonist, played by Nani, embodies this very duality. From Sunday to Friday, he remains a subdued, ‘Manickam’-like character, a humble auto-driver with a mysterious past. However, come Saturday, he transforms into his true, larger-than-life self, evoking the spirit of Rajinikanth’s ‘Baashha’ character, who concealed his past as a fearsome underworld don beneath the facade of a meek auto-driver.
S.J. Suryah’s comparison between his film and Baashha is more than just an acknowledgment of influence; it’s a tribute to the indelible mark left by Superstar Rajinikanth and director Suresh Krissna on Indian cinema. Their collaboration in Baashha created a cinematic formula that filmmakers across industries have been emulating ever since—a blend of mass appeal, hero worship, and larger-than-life storytelling that captures the imagination of audiences across generations.
By referencing Baashha at a promotional event for a Telugu movie, Suryah has shown his deep-rooted admiration for Rajinikanth, proving once again that the Superstar’s influence transcends linguistic and regional barriers. This revelation has struck a chord with fans, who see Suryah as not just a filmmaker but as a die-hard Rajinikanth devotee.
Adding to the Tamil cinema appreciation, Nani, the lead actor in Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, also shared his admiration for the industry. He specifically mentioned his love for Kamal Haasan’s Virumaandi (originally titled Sandiyar), a film he holds in such high regard that he keeps a poster of it in his office. This nod to Kamal Haasan’s work highlights Nani’s respect for the rich cinematic heritage of Tamil Nadu and the enduring influence of its legends.
In an industry where references to iconic films are often made, S.J. Suryah and Nani’s comments stand out, not just as promotional tactics but as genuine expressions of their reverence for the giants of Tamil cinema. As Saripodhaa Sanivaaram hits the screens, it does so with the weight of history behind it—carrying forward the legacy of Baashha while carving out its own place in the commercial cinema landscape.