Superstar Rajinikanth told us his honest reflections on loyalty, criticism and personal gestures while announcing the launch of his new film Dharman at the launch event in Chennai on June 24, 2026, produced by Kamal Haasan. He was not only the first person to introduce Rajinikanth as a doctor in the action drama but also shared his thoughts on fans vs. detractors, and his stance on the relationship between fans and critics.
Rajinikanth said to the audience that supporters may not always agree with every move or decision he makes. He said loyalty is tested when people still stick by him even if he’s not going to be the one to whom they are not happy and not what they are right and he tried to show them it is through the lens of what their opinions are to be seen as his fans still support him not always do. What he said resonated with the audience and this is all about a man of wisdom and humility.
We had been waiting to know why Rajinikanth’s comments came just after he had refused to talk to Vijay on the eve of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s birthday on June 22. The media was awash with speculation about whether Rajinikanth was too far away from Vijay in terms of Vijay’s political party after his political rise and who had cut off contact after he took over as the Chairman of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister. As he announced to Vijay on his birthday on his own, he said he made a phone call and conveyed his wishes to the chief minister in a kind and warm way.
The launch also showed Rajinikanth in Dharman as a doctor who gets entangled in a high-action and drama storyline which is very much out of the moment. The film is currently being made ready for release in Pongal 2027 and it is among the most eagerly awaited Tamil movies from the start. With Kamal Haasan on board for this film, it can be expected that even more so with this kind of star power and social significance.
Industry analysts felt Rajinikanth’s comments about haters and fans were timely but also symbolic of his continuing influence. In an age when public figures are often judged by their social media presence, his preference for personal connections over public gestures is remarkable. The actor’s ability to strike a balance between humility and charisma is making him more popular with an audience over time.
Rajinikanth’s words at the Dharman launch also encapsulated his philosophy of authenticity and toughness. It was through how he answered speculation and in the context of an important new role that he proved that he is both a film icon and a wise voice in Tamil Nadu’s culture.
