Chennai: Superstar Rajinikanth is drawing criticism on social media following remarks made during the audio launch of his upcoming film Coolie, held on August 2 in Chennai. While the veteran actor aimed to praise co-stars Soubin Shahir and Aamir Khan, many online have accused him of body-shaming due to his comments referring to Soubin as “bald” and Aamir Khan as “short.”

During his nearly 40-minute speech, Rajinikanth admitted he had initial doubts about Soubin’s casting in the film due to his appearance. “I asked Lokesh, ‘Who is Soubin? Which films has he acted in?’ He mentioned Manjummel Boys, where Soubin played a key role,” he said.

The Jailer star said, “I still had doubts and even questioned whether he (Soubin) would suit the role because he was bald. But I stayed quiet because Lokesh had full confidence in him.” Rajinikanth later praised Soubin’s performance, saying, “What an actor! Hats off!”

He then recalled how director Lokesh Kanagaraj told him about Aamir Khan’s cameo in the film. “I thought it might be Kamal Haasan. Then Lokesh said it’s Aamir Khan. I was silent... I was thinking Aamir Khan would take two whole years just to okay a script, “He stands tall among them (Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan) all despite being short...A legend! My salute to you, sir.”

How is social media reacting to it?

Though Rajinikanth ended his comments with admiration for both actors, the internet was quick to respond and not everyone found his remarks appropriate.

One X user wrote, “Bald head or short height doesn’t matter — anyone can be great. Aamir Khan, average height between SRK & Salman, is a legend. Soumin nailed it despite judgments on looks. Watch with an open mind, not hatred. Even Rajini embraced his old roles & look. Think about it.”

Another user criticised the tone of the comments, stating, “It’s good that he praised later, but body shaming is unacceptable, superstar or not.”

Others were more sarcastic, “Rajini thinks he is 20 years old with good hair.”

However, not all the reactions were critical. Many fans defended the actor, arguing that his comments were misinterpreted and that his overall message was one of admiration and praise.