‘Kaala’: All you need to know about the Rajinikanth-starrer

Despite all the controversies surrounding it, superstar Rajinikanth is prepping up for the release of ‘Kaala’, which is easily the most anticipated Tamil release this year. After much delay, the film is finally hitting the screens onJune 7 and has huge expectations among fans. With just two days left for the release of the film, here are the things you need to know about the Rajinikanth-starrer.

‘Kaala’ has been one of the most anticipated films of the year where superstar Rajinikanth is reportedly playing a gangster named Kaala Karikalan. The trailer of the film has apparently set the tone right for the film which showed some great mass moments featuring Rajinikanth. Reportedly, ‘Kaala’ is set in Dharavi and will see Rajinikanth playing a slumlord of sorts. In fact, the ‘Enthiran’ star is reported to be fighting for the rights of Tamil people. The film also marks Rajinikanth’s second association with Pa Ranjith after their blockbuster outing ‘Kabali’. One of the main highlights of the film is Rajinikanth’s majestic screen presence, who looks absolutely stylish as Kaala Karikalan.

Pa Ranjith is one of the few filmmakers who have incorporated strong political messages in their films. However, contrary to the ongoing reports, Rajinikanth clarified at the audio launch that ‘Kaala’ is not a political, but has strong political message. Ranjith has given a whole new definition to the colour black and the film itself is likely to talk about the story of the oppressed. From the trailer, it’s quite evident that ‘Kaala’ will touch upon several socio-political issues such as casteism and classism. In fact, Ranjith stated that the reach would be greater when someone like Rajinikanth plays the protagonist. The trailer is cut in such a way that ‘Kaala’ is likely to strike a chord with the masses.

Last week, Rajinikanth’s fans woke up to a shocking news that the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has decided to ban the release of ‘Kaala’ in Karnataka in interest of the state. The chamber also stated that Rajinikanth’s opinion on the sensitive Cauvery issue had reportedly hurt the sentiments of Kannadigas. In fact, several pro-Kannadiga outfits protested against the film and stated that they won’t allow the release of Rajini and Kamal’s films in the state. Several celebrities including Kamal Haasan, Vishal and Prakash Raj expressed their dissatisfaction over the ban imposed on the film. On Monday, the producers of ‘Kaala’ filed a writ petition in the Karnataka High Court asking to provide security for the screening of their film in the state. According to reports, an official clarification regarding the release is expected to be announced tomorrow. Will ‘Kaala’ have a peaceful release in Karnataka? Only time will tell.

When the first look poster of ‘Kaala’ was out last year, what caught the attention of viewers apart from ‘Thalaivar’ Rajinikanth was the dog that featured in the poster. The dog’s name is Mani, who is now worth close to Rs 2 crore. According to reports, bidders were ready to spend a whopping Rs 2 crore to buy out Mani, which was apparently found on the streets in Chennai. In an interview, animal trainer Simon revealed that Mani shared a very bond with Rajinikanth on the sets of ‘Kaala’, which made his job much easier. Reports suggest that the dog Mani has a pivotal role in ‘Kaala’.

In a short span of time, director Pa Ranjith has established himself as someone who’d give equal importance to his supporting characters. Apart from Rajinikanth, one of the major highlights of ‘Kaala’ is its supporting cast that boasts of names such as Nana Patekar, Huma Qureshi, Eswari Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Samuthirakani and Anjali Patil. Reportedly, actress Eswari Rao has been cast opposite Rajinikanth to play the female lead. She will be seen as Rajinikanth’s wife in the film, while Huma Qureshi plays Rajinikanth's ex-lover called Zareena. Veteran Bollywood actor Nana Patekar has been pitted against Rajini. From the trailer, it’s quite evident that the actor will lock horns with ‘Thalaivar’. Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi will be seen as a police officer in the film. On the other hand, Samuthirakani will be seen as Rajinikanth’s associate.

‘Kaala’ is produced by none other than Rajinikanth’s son-in-law and actor Dhanush’s home productions Wunderbar Films. After the stupendous success of ‘Kabali’, Dhanush announced his big production venture with Rajinikanth. It was widely speculated that the duo was coming together for ‘Kabali 2’. However, Dhanush later clarified that it’s a completely different film. At ‘Kaala’ audio launch, Rajinikanth stated that he jokingly asked his daughter Aishwarya whether Dhanush would make a film with him and that’s how ‘Kaala’ happened. Recently, the makers revealed that ‘Kaala’ is made on whopping budget of Rs 140 crore. It’s worth noting that the makers spent a lavish amount to recreate Dharavi area in Chennai. As per the reports, the satellite and other rights of the film have already been sold for a massive price. Going by reports, the film has already fetched enough moolah for the producers. Trade analysts predict a huge opening on its first day, which is on June 7.