
Superstar Rajinikanth recently reflected on his formative years at APS High School, sharing how it was here that the first spark of his acting career was ignited. In a heartfelt video message, the actor reminisced about receiving his first-ever ‘Best Actor’ award for portraying the role of a Chandala in an inter-high school drama competition, a moment he described as life-changing.
“During inter-school drama competitions, I would tell stories, act, and entertain my classmates. Teachers encouraged me to participate in drama. That recognition planted the seeds of my acting career,” Rajinikanth recalled in the message, speaking in Kannada. Although he was unable to attend the APS High School alumni meet due to his ongoing shoot for Coolie in Bangkok, he expressed deep affection for his alma mater.
The actor fondly remembered the school’s vast playgrounds and his participation in sports like cricket, football, kho kho and kabaddi, as well as the stone buildings that remain etched in his memory. “These memories are evergreen in my mind,” he said. He also touched upon his academic struggles, particularly with the transition from Kannada to English medium schooling, which led him to become a “last bencher” during his early days at APS.
Rajinikanth went on to acknowledge the teachers at APS who played a pivotal role in his education and personal growth, including a chemistry teacher who offered him free lessons, which enabled him to pass his public exams. He concluded with gratitude, saying, “APS High School made me who I am today. I am forever proud of it.”
As Rajinikanth continues to enthral audiences with his iconic roles, he remains deeply connected to the school that shaped his early years.