The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded its grand run in Panaji, Goa, on November 28, 2025, with a spectacular ceremony dedicated to one of Indian cinema’s biggest icons: ‘Superstar’ Rajinikanth. The festival, held in collaboration with the Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF) and the Government of Goa, celebrated the actor’s monumental 50-year journey in the film industry, a career spanning over 160 films and cementing his status as a unique mass phenomenon.
A Historic Felicitation for an Infinite Mass
The closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 was transformed into a momentous tribute, as the superstar was felicitated for his “extraordinary evening” and decades of contribution to the global film landscape. The event underscored his unparalleled popularity, often described by fans with the simple, powerful mantra seen in the promotional material: “ONE MAN. INFINITE MASS.” Rajinikanth was bestowed with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” (or International Film Festival of India Award for Achievement in Film) in recognition of his enduring legacy.
This marks the third major IFFI recognition for the veteran actor, following the prestigious Centenary Award for Indian Film Personality of the Year in 2014 and the Icon of the Golden Jubilee Award at the 50th edition in 2019. The award this year specifically commemorates his golden jubilee—50 glorious years since his debut in 1975. The promotional visuals captured the sentiment perfectly, declaring: “SUPERSTAR SETS IFFI ON FIRE!”
Rajinikanth’s Acceptance Speech: A Vow for a Hundred Lifetimes
Taking the stage to a thunderous applause, Superstar Rajinikanth delivered a brief, heartfelt acceptance speech, expressing immense gratitude and profound humility.
“I stand here with a lot of humility and gratitude,” he stated, offering his “heartfelt thanks to the center government for honoring me” for his 50 years of acting in cinema. He remarked on the surreal passage of time, confessing that looking back, the five decades felt like “10 or 15 years”.
He attributed this feeling to his deep-seated passion for the art form, delivering the most emotional statement of the night:
“I love acting and cinema. Even if I get the chance to take 100 births (100 ஜென்மம்), I wish to be born as an actor, as Rajinikanth.”
The superstar humbly dedicated the honour not just to his fans, but to the entire fraternity: “I owe this honor to cinema industry producers, directors, technicians, distributors, exhibitors, everybody and mainly [the audience]. Thank you very much for love and affection.”
Industry Reaction: Suresh Krissna’s Emotional Response
The moving statement about being reborn as an actor immediately resonated deeply within the film industry. Veteran director Suresh Krissna, who helmed some of the superstar’s most iconic films including Annamalai and the cult classic Baashha (which was also screened at IFFI 2025), shared a powerful reaction online.
In a personal message, Suresh Krissna praised the actor’s dedication:
“Dear Rajni. Sir, when you said you’d choose to be born as Rajnikant even in 100 janmas, it moved me deeply. If I take 100 janmas, I’d want to be born again as a director .. to adore your films .. and hopefully direct another Annamalai Baba n Baasha.”
This sentiment from a close collaborator underscored the actor’s profound impact, not just as a star, but as a muse for Indian storytellers.
Acknowledging the Phenomenon: Praise and Ponderance
The overwhelming sentiment surrounding the felicitation was one of historic reverence. Dignitaries, filmmakers, and fans alike hailed the moment as a richly deserved tribute to an artist whose distinctive ‘Style that became a Sensation,’ ‘Presence that became Power,’ and ‘Journey that became Legend’ transcended regional and linguistic barriers.
However, the event was not without its academic contemplation. While the majority celebrated his “generation-defining performances,” a few critical voices within cinematic circles raised questions regarding his acting style, often debated for its emphasis on stylized theatrics and larger-than-life characterizations over subtle realism. Nevertheless, the prevailing consensus, reinforced by the continuous celebration, is that Rajinikanth’s unique approach created a filmic language and cultural phenomenon that is indisputably his own.
Closing Night Highlights and Golden Peacock Winner
The memorable closing ceremony featured a host of cultural programs, performances, and heartfelt tributes to the superstar from his contemporaries and protégés. The evening culminated in the much-anticipated announcement of the Golden Peacock Award, the highest honour at the festival, recognizing the best film from the international competitive section. The 56th IFFI, which began its run with a focus on world-class cinema, thus concluded with a powerful acknowledgment of one of Indian cinema’s most powerful global ambassadors.
Celebrating 50 glorious years of Rajinikanth, a journey that transformed Indian cinema with unmatched style, charisma and devotion to the craft. His legacy continues to inspire generations, shaping stories, stars and audiences alike. Today, we honour not just an icon, but an era… pic.twitter.com/HYZctLMItP
— International Film Festival of India (@IFFIGoa) November 29, 2025