Is Rajinikanth being misused?

Legendary superstar Rajinikanth has contributed to a series of jokes that are in circulation via SMS and e-mails that intend sheer pun, for he is portrayed on screen as someone who can make impossible things happen.

He is a brand, an institution and his name alone can pull crowd of great strength. His fan following is spread across the globe and he has inspired the Japanese to watch more and more Indian films.

But off late, his name is being used for publicity and promotion even if he is disassociated with the project. Shah Rukh Khan had recently roped in the superstar to play a cameo in his sci-fi superhero flick `RA.One` that released this Diwali. However, when fans of the Tamil veteran flocked the theatres to watch their superstar sizzle, they were left utterly disappointed. Rajinikanth definitely featured in the film but in the form of graphics.

Not too long ago, news of Rajini and Aamir teaming up for a government ad campaign for malnutrition was doing rounds.

But the superstar`s official spokesperson, V M Sudhakar, while talking to a daily denied the news and said that it was completely baseless. Thalaivar (Rajini Sir) had not given a nod to be a part of any such ad campaign as yet.

Looks like everyone wants a slice of `brand Rajini`.

Hmm…after all, his name alone works wonders…isn’t it?