Rajinikanth's 75th Birthday: Padayappa gets a big-screen re-release, and why it was never streamed on OTT

Rajinikanth Birthday: Superstar Rajinikanth’s iconic 1999 film Padayappa is set for a grand theatrical re-release on December 12, coinciding with the legendary actor’s 75th birthday. This re-release is especially significant for fans because, unlike most older films now available on digital platforms, Padayappa has never been released on any OTT service. Rajinikanth has also shared the reason behind that decision.

In an era where audiences often revisit classics through digital streaming, the Padayappa star intentionally kept the movie off OTT platforms. According to a report by India Today, Rajinikanth declined several offers to sell the streaming rights because he believes the film is meant to be experienced only in theatres.

He said, "I did not give the rights to any telecast player, despite multiple requests. I wanted people to watch it only on the big screen. It should be a kondattam (celebration) for fans on my 50th year in cinema, being the producer and writer of the film."

Insights about Padayappa

The film holds deep personal significance for Rajinikanth. While announcing its theatrical return, he posted a video on his X (formerly Twitter) account titled The Return Of Padayappa, 75th Birthday Special. In it, he recalled the movie’s swift 70-day shooting schedule and cherished memories of working with Sivaji Ganesan.



[With TOI inputs]