Directed by K. Natraj, "Anbulla Rajinikanth" is a 1984 children’s drama. The cast includes Rajinikanth, Meena, Ambika and Rajkumar Sthupathi. The movie tracks a physically challenged orphan who, spurred by her matinee idol’s films, starts contemplating her tough demeanour toward life and begins a quest to find her true self.
Rosy, an orphan girl with a paralysed left arm and a weak heart. Her rudeness and abuse of her caregivers render her hateful to them, except Mother Superior, who is all that’s good and good to all. Babysitter Lalitha cares for Rosy and dotes on her as well, surprising Mother Superior. Superstar Rajinikanth stops over at the orphanage to cheer up the children. Rosy turns her nose up at his gifts and his movie. She later sees the tape and capitulates, admitting her affection for Rajinikanth. Rosy develops a crush on him and asks for his help.
Rajinikanth bounces back and stages a play with K. Bhagyaraj, befriends Rosy and takes her along to his shoots. One day, Rosy passes out and dies, and her doctor discovers that she has but a few days to live. Rajinikanth promises to take care of Rosy and requests Lalitha’s assistance, who confesses that she is Rosy’s biological mother. Mother Superior enlists Rajinikanth’s aid in keeping Rosy joyous, and rejoices at Christmas as Santa. Rosy dies, and even her friends, who had begun to like her since her attitude change, cry. Rajinikanth walks away from the orphanage, following her funeral.
"Anbulla Rajinikanth" is an emotional children’s drama, a beautiful concoction of warmth and inspiration. With a tender voice and powerful emotional punches, the movie unpacks the themes of compassion, redemption, and love. Its strength is its simplicity, providing moments that strike a chord. Tender performances and a heartfelt message turn it into a memorable movie for kids and families.