IFFI 2025: Rajinikanth’s Cult Classic 'Baashha' Selected at the Festival As Superstar Marks 50 Years in Cinema

The 1995 blockbuster, one of the actor’s most enduring films, will screen at the International Film Festival of India as part of a special tribute honouring Rajinikanth’s golden jubilee in cinema.

Team THR India
By Team THR India
LAST UPDATED: NOV 26, 2025, 13:25 IST|5 min read
A still from 'Baasha'
A still from 'Baasha'

Rajinikanth’s iconic 1995 film Baashha is set to return to the big screen this year after being officially selected for the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. The screening forms a key part of the festival’s tribute to the superstar, who is being honoured at the closing ceremony for completing 50 years in cinema — a milestone being widely celebrated across the industry.

Director Suresh Krissna, who helmed the action drama, shared his delight at the selection on X, calling the film a “timeless blessing” and expressing gratitude that it continues to resonate nearly three decades after its release. The film remains one of Rajinikanth’s most recognisable and career-defining works, retaining a devoted fan base and an outsized presence in Tamil pop culture.

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Baashha follows Manickam, a humble auto driver quietly supporting his family after the death of his father. Unbeknownst to his siblings, he carries a turbulent past: he was once Manick Baashha, a powerful underworld figure in Bombay known for dispensing justice as fiercely as he commanded loyalty. His promise to his dying father — to leave violence behind and lead an honest life — anchors the narrative. When his former nemesis Antony returns, Manickam is forced to confront his past to protect his family, leading to the film’s now-legendary confrontations and dramatic reveals.

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Starring Nagma opposite Rajinikanth and featuring Raghuvaran in one of Tamil cinema’s most memorable villain roles, the film also included Janagaraj, Vijayakumar, Anandaraj, Devan and several others in supporting parts. Its dialogues, character arcs and music helped cement Baashha as a cult favourite, regularly revisited by fans and frequently referenced in contemporary Tamil pop culture.

Rajinikanth’s golden jubilee year has drawn admiration from across industries, with actors and filmmakers recently sharing their memories of working with him and reflecting on the impact of his career.

IFFI 2025 is also celebrating another industry milestone: Telugu star Nandamuri Balakrishna will be honoured for completing 50 years in cinema.

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