From Rajinikanth’s legendary status as 'Superstar' and 'Thalaiva' to Pawan Kalyan’s fan-given title of 'Powerstar', these titles encapsulate the aura and influence that these actors hold over their legion of fans
Rajinikanth, Prabhas and Nani
It is no news that in the South Indian cinema, movie stars are not just mere actors—they're revered as larger-than-life icons. Fans of the cinema worship and idolise them and movie releases of big stars are no less of a festival. For decades, south celebs have had prefixes attached to their name that reflect their persona, legacy, and the love of their fans. These honorifics—like 'Thala' (leader), 'Thalapathy' (commander), 'Megastar', 'Powerstar', and 'Rebel Star'—aren't just nicknames, but cultural symbols deeply woven into the fabric of the film industry.
From Rajinikanth’s legendary status as 'Superstar' and 'Thalaiva' to Pawan Kalyan’s fan-given title of 'Powerstar', these titles encapsulate the aura and influence that these actors hold over their legion of fans. While the prefixes were earlier limited to the bigger stars, now it has become a norm with most new celebs getting a nickname. These titles are proudly used in film posters, fan art, and even dialogues, further strengthening the bond between stars and their admirers. In many ways, these prefixes are a testament to the deep-rooted hero worship that defines South Indian cinema—where actors transcend their roles and become eternal symbols of aspiration, strength, and emotion.
South stars and their prefixes
Tamil
Superstar Rajinikanth – 'Superstar' is a title given by fans and media to the actor.
Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan – Ulaganayagan means Universal Hero.
Thalapathy Vijay – Thalapathy means Commander.
Thala Ajith – Thala means Leader.
Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi – Makkal Selvan means People’s Treasure.
Captain Vijayakanth – Known as Captain after his film Captain Prabhakaran.
Puratchi Thalaivar MGR – Puratchi Thalaivar means Revolutionary Leader.
Nadigar Thilagam Sivaji Ganesan – Nadigar Thilagam means “Doyen of Acting.”
Isai Gnani Ilaiyaraaja (though a composer) – Isai Gnani means “Musical Genius.”
Telugu Cinema
Megastar Chiranjeevi – Widely referred to as Megastar.
Powerstar Pawan Kalyan – Popularly known as Powerstar.
Icon Star Allu Arjun – Recently rebranded with the title Icon Star.
Rebel Star Prabhas – After his movie Rebel and Baahubali series. Meanwhile, he refers to his fans as Darlings.
Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja – The actor is known for mass entertainers.
Natasimham Nandamuri Balakrishna – Natasimham means Lion of Acting.
Prince Mahesh Babu – Prince was his early screen persona.
Natural Star Nani – For his natural acting style
Malayalam Cinema
Complete Actor Mohanlal – For his versatility.
Megastar Mammootty – Popular media and fan title.
Action King Suresh Gopi – Due to his action roles in the ’90s.
Youth Icon Dulquer Salmaan – Known as a youth favourite.
Kunchacko Boban – Chocolate Boy – For his romantic image in early films.
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