Superstar Rajinikanth has once again proven his enduring dominance at the box office. His latest release, Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj with music by Anirudh Ravichander, has raced past the ₹500 crore mark globally. The film, which opened to record-breaking numbers, continues to enjoy packed houses across India and overseas, solidifying its position as one of the biggest hits in recent years.
What makes Coolie’s success particularly significant is that it arrives amidst a heated debate sparked by film producer and critic G. Dhananjayan. Prior to the release, Dhananjayan had repeatedly compared Coolie to films such as Thug Life and Kanguva, which struggled at the box office. These remarks drew sharp criticism from fans and industry observers, who accused him of attempting to undermine the project.
However, the film’s extraordinary box office performance has silenced detractors. Popular PRO, celebrity manager, and die-hard Rajinikanth fan Riaz K. Ahmed released a strongly worded video soon after the controversy broke, questioning the need for hostility towards a Rajinikanth film. His sentiments have now been echoed by millions of fans celebrating Coolie’s success, which they see as proof that the Superstar’s magic remains untouchable.
Social media has turned into a celebration zone, with hashtags like #CoolieThePowerHouse and #ThalaivarForLife trending worldwide. Fans have not only dismissed the criticism but also argued that Rajinikanth’s cinema is beyond comparisons—pointing to the ₹500 crore milestone as evidence of his unmatched mass appeal.
Industry analysts note that the combination of Lokesh Kanagaraj’s gripping direction, Anirudh’s thumping soundtrack, and Rajinikanth’s towering presence has made Coolie a complete package for audiences. The film’s run in international markets, particularly in the United States, the Middle East, and Malaysia, has further strengthened its global appeal, with distributors hailing it as one of the most profitable Tamil releases of all time.
As Coolie continues its victorious march, the debate surrounding Dhananjayan’s earlier comments has shifted. What was once seen as an attempt to downplay the film has now become a reminder of how Superstar Rajinikanth repeatedly defies expectations. With the ₹500 crore barrier broken and more records in sight, Coolie is not just a movie—it is a phenomenon that reaffirms why Rajinikanth remains cinema’s ultimate crowd-puller.