On December 12, Rajinikanth fans celebrate the superstar's 75th birthday and the re-release of his iconic film, Padayappa, which has been absent from OTT platforms since its 1999 debut.

Last Updated: 10.02 AM, Dec 09, 2025
Come December 12, it is a special day for Rajinikanth fans as the superstar is not only celebrating his 75th birthday but also all set to grace big screens once again. Padayappa, which is close to superstar’s heart, is a film which is not available on any OTT platform for streaming and Rajinikanth gives a special reason.

Padayappa is a cult classic Tamil film starring Rajinikanth in the lead role. The film released in theatres in 1999 and went on to become a blockbuster. However, fans have not been able to revisit the film on OTT because Padayappa is not available on OTT.
Rajinikanth had produced Padayappa, even as he had not put his name in the credits. The superstar had also penned the story and put together the project. Given it was his pet project, Rajinikanth said that he did not want to put it out on OTT. "I had produced the film and did not sell it to any OTT, or satellite. It is because the film has to be watched in theatres and celebrated by people. I have kept the film so long and wanted to release for my 50th year. So, you will watch Padayappa after 25 years since its last release in 1999,” Rajinikanth revealed.

In the same interview, Rajinikanth also shared that he has an idea for Padayappa sequel just like his other films 2.0 and Jailer 2 getting second instalment. "In the end of Padayappa, Neelambari says that she will come back for revenge on Padayappa in her next birth. So why not a sequel titled Neelambari. We are discussing the story for it, and if it comes out well, we will make another film like Padayappa,” said Rajinikanth.
Padayappa re-releases in theatres on December 12. Starring Ramya Krishnan, Soudarya, Sivaji Ganesan and others, the film is directed by KS Ravikumar.
Q. Where can I stream Padayappa?
A. Padayappa is not available on any OTT platform.
Q. Is Padayappa hit or flop?
A. Padayappa was a massive hit in Rajinikanth's career, and went on to become a cult classic.
Q. Is Padayappa 2 based on a true story?
A. Rajinikanth recently revealed that Padayappa 2 is on cards and will be titled Neelambari.