Rajinikanth pays heartfelt tribute to Sarath Babu: 'I never smoked in front of him'

Rajinikanth recalled an incident that happened during the filming of Annaamalai while paying tribute to Sarath Babu, who passed away on Monday.

Rajinikanth and Sarath Babu in Annaamalai.

Veteran actor Sarath Babu, 71, passed away in Hyderabad on Monday, succumbing to multiple organ failure. His demise has left a void in the South Indian film industry, with numerous celebrities paying their respects and sharing fond memories of the late actor . Superstar Rajinikanth, a close friend of Sarath Babu, expressed his condolences and recalled their longstanding friendship.

"I knew Sarath Babu before I became an actor. We were good friends. He's a very good human being and a friend. He would always be with a smiling face. And I have never seen him get angry. You all know that all the movies I worked on with him were big hits — Mullum Malarum, Muthu, Velaikkaran. He had a lot of affection for me," Rajinikanth reminisced, reflecting on their successful collaborations.

Thalapathy 68: Venkat Prabhu hints at Jr NTR's role in Vijay starrer?

The legendary actor further shared Sarath Babu's genuine concern for his well-being, particularly regarding his smoking habit. "He was always concerned about my smoking habit. He kept telling me 'to quit smoking, don't spoil your health, and you should live for a long time.' If he saw me smoking, he would snatch it from me and throw it away. And I never used to smoke in front of him," Rajinikanth revealed, highlighting Sarath Babu's caring nature.

Rajinikanth also recounted a memorable incident during the filming of the movie Annaamalai, where Sarath Babu's support and advice played a crucial role. "In Annaamalai, while filming a big scene, it went on for 15 takes, but it was not okayed (by the director). I didn't get the emotions right. And he (Sarath Babu) made me take a break, asked me to sit down and offered me a cigarette. After that, the take was okayed. I'm just remembering that incident to show how much he cared about me," Rajinikanth shared.

"It pains to see the man who always advised me to take care of my health is no longer with us. Let his soul rest in peace," Rajinikanth concluded, expressing his grief.

The final rites for Sarath Babu will be conducted in Chennai.

Share