'War 2' vs 'Coolie': Hrithik Roshan pays heartfelt tribute to Rajinikanth's 50th anniversary ahead of the two mega releases; calls him 'one of my first teachers'

As the highly anticipated films 'War 2' and 'Coolie' prepare for a massive box office clash, Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan has shown a touching display of good faith. He extended his best wishes to the legendary actor Rajinikanth, reflecting on their shared past and celebrating his remarkable 50-year journey in Indian cinema.Here's a closer look at the post.

Hrithik Roshan shares an emotional post for Rajinikanth

'War 2' star Hrithik Roshan has extended his best wishes to the iconic actor Rajinikanth, celebrating his incredible 50th anniversary in cinema. The tribute comes just a day before the theatrical release of both Hrithik's film, 'War 2,' and Rajinikanth's 'Coolie,' which are set for a major box office showdown.Taking to his social media account on X, Hrithik shared a heartfelt message that resonated with fans.

"Took my first steps as an actor at your side," he wrote. "You were one of my first teachers, @rajinikanth sir, and continue to be an inspiration and a standard. Congratulations on completing 50 years of on-screen magic!" The post quickly went viral, with fans praising Hrithik for his humility and respect for the veteran actor.

Hrithik Roshan's shared history with Rajinikanth

Hrithik's tribute is a nod to a long-forgotten piece of cinema history. As a child actor, a young Hrithik Roshan shared the screen with Rajinikanth in the 1986 film, 'Bhagwaan Dada.'

Directed by Hrithik’s grandfather, J. Om Prakash, the film featured the two actors in pivotal roles. Hrithik has previously recounted anecdotes from the set, noting how Rajinikanth would protect him from getting scolded by the director, taking the blame for his mistakes to ensure the young actor wouldn't get discouraged.

This personal connection adds even more weight to Hrithik's recent message, making his words about Rajinikanth being "one of my first teachers" a sincere reflection of their history.

'War 2' vs 'Coolie'

The mutual respect and celebration of the two mega releases are particularly noteworthy given the significant box office clash. Both 'War 2' and 'Coolie' are among the most anticipated films of the year, with Hrithik reprising the popular character of Major Kabir from the 2019 blockbuster 'War.' The sequel, a part of the YRF Spy Universe, also stars NTR Jr. and Kiara Advani and is directed by Ayan Mukerji. Meanwhile, 'Coolie' has been directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj toplining Rajinikanth as Devaa alongside an ensemble cast of Aamir Khan, Shruti Haasan, Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj and Soubin Shahir.