Even as condolence messages are pouring into social media platforms from fans of ‘Mayilu’ across the globe, the superstar Rajini’s fans are posting their heartfelt tributes to Sridevi in great numbers. And there’s a reason behind it. When Rajinikanth started shooting for Rana with Deepika Padukone in 2011 in Chennai, he fell ill on the sets and was admitted to a local hospital. He developed complications later and was admitted to a top Singapore hospital when he was said to be critical. When Sridevi, who shared a great friendship with Rajini over the years, heard about it, she was very upset. That’s when she made a vow to Shirdi Sai Baba that she would observe a pious fast for a week to pray for Rajini’s speedy recovery.
The actress fulfilled her promise and then visited Sai Baba’s Shridi Temple at Pune. She did this quietly without informing anyone and only after the Baasha star had recuperated and returned home did Sri let out that she had undertaken a penance for his recovery. Many Rajini fans recalled this on their FB accounts and are praising Sridevi for her gesture to their ‘Thalaivar’ and paying their homage.
There was yet another incident which reveals the Lady Superstar’s closeness to Rajini which only a few may know. When Sridevi left the Tamil industry and was being hailed as a huge Bollywood star, the actress was turning down all offers from the south, including one from a big hero with whom she had acted in many films.
Industry sources say that around that time Rajini wanted her for his film Naan Adimai Illai. Though he was a bit apprehensive, he still called and asked Sridevi and, much to his surprise, she gave her nod without asking any questions. This was in 1986 and it was the last movie Sridevi did in Tamil before she got married and took a long hiatus only to resume her career with English Vinglish in 2102. That was the rapport and respect she had for her best friend Rajinikanth. Another reason why Rajini dashed off to Mumbai on Sunday night even before getting to know when the funeral would be held for his dear old friend from the world of Tamil films.
