07 June,2018 02:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online desk
Fans gathered outside Carnival Cinema and other cinema halls to watch Rajinikanth's latest movie, Kaala. Pic Courtesy: Yogen Shah
Rajinikanth's most-awaited film, Kaala finally hit the theatres on 07 June 2018. The Thailava's first day-first show was a sight to behold. On one hand, where his fans travelled from Japan to Chennai to see the mammoth celebration around his film's release, it was Mumbaikars true spirit that heavy downpour also couldn't put a dent to their wish of watching Rajinikanth's film's on its first day.
A sea of fans has gathered outside Matunga's Aurora theatre to watch the film. Continuing their old tradition, they worshipped the film's poster with milk, garlands, colours, dance performances and celebrated it in all possible ways.
As the admirers celebrated the release of the much-awaited film by dancing to the beat of the drums, the skies too opened up to match the footsteps of Rajini lovers. Rajinikanth loyalists started streaming into one of the suburban multiplexes here as early as 12 a.m, holding their special "fans only" tickets with a poster of "Kaala" imprinted on them. By 5 a.m, as many as 1,000 fans started thronging the multiplex.
Three police jeeps and a police van were stationed outside the venue for security reasons.
Mumbai rains tried to put a dampener on what could inarguably be called a festival, but failed to match the frenzy of ardent Thalaivar fans. Men were dressed in suits, blazers and traditional lungi, and the women draped in saris with gajra-adorned hair.
"Rajini sir is not a star, he is our God. He is a culture in himself. I inherited my love for him from my parents. They will be proud of me," said a 20-year-old fan from the Tamil stronghold of Dharavi who arrived at midnight to catch the first show at 6 a.m. at the theatre with his friends.
Over 50 women, dressed in traditional south Indian yellow sari, walked from a temple to the theatre to show their devotion for the actor.
Fans, with Rajinikanth's portrait, painted on their chests and some even replicating his Kaala look - black shirt, black lungi and a white beard - gathered near the 67 feet poster of the actor, which was garlanded, signalling the beginning of the day and the film's first show.
"The poster is 67 feet because Rajini is 67 years old. We were coordinating over this since months and the auspicious day is finally here. We have prayed for him, danced for him, now we, will cheer for him," said Santosh, a member of Rajini fan club.
When pointed out that the collection of his last few films have not matched to the stardom the actor enjoys, the fan replied, "Can anything ever hurt God? Nothing. His films are our blessings and we are here to take it."
Directed by Pa Ranjith, Kaala features Rajinikanth as a powerful don living in the slums of Dharavi. The film also features Nana Patekar, Huma Qureshi and Anjali Patil.
Also Read: SC Rejects Plea Against Release Of Rajinikanth Starrer 'Kaala'
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(With inputs from PTI)
