Kabali(2016)
Kabali is a 2016 Indian Tamil-language action drama film directed by Pa. Ranjith and produced by Kalaipuli S. Thanu. The film stars Rajinikanth in the lead role, with Winston Chao, Radhika Apte, and Dhansika in supporting roles. The story follows a reformed gangster who is released from prison after 25 years and seeks to reunite with his family while confronting his old rival. Set in Malaysia, the film explores the struggles of the Tamil migrant community against exploitation and discrimination. Kabali was noted for its emotional depth, Rajinikanth's restrained performance, and its social commentary. It earned over ₹250–270 crores worldwide, becoming a commercial success despite mixed critical reviews. The film was released theatrically on July 21, 2016, and is available for streaming on various platforms.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- VI Movies and TV, Sun Nxt, Hotstar, Netflix, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 22 July 2016
- Director
- Pa. Ranjit
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 32m
- Rating
- 6.3/10
Storyline
After 25 years in a Malaysian prison, Kabali is released and returns to the streets of Kuala Lumpur. He wants nothing more than to find his wife and daughter. But his old enemy, a powerful businessman named Tony Lee, stands in his way. Kabali must fight to protect his family and his community, even if it means returning to a life of violence.
“A king returns to claim his throne.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Kabali
Cast reunions in this film: Nassar & John Vijay (7 films together), Nassar & Santhosh Narayanan (7 films together), Santhosh Narayanan & Kalaiyarasan (6 films together), Kishore & Nassar (5 films together), Nassar & Sampath Ram (5 films together), and Pa. Ranjit & Kalaiyarasan (5 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Kabali' is inspired by a real-life Malaysian gangster named Kabaleeshwaran, known for his Robin Hood-like image among Tamil plantation workers.
- Director Pa. Ranjith and actor Rajinikanth visited Malaysia twice before filming to research the lives of the local Tamil community for authenticity.
- The film's background score was composed by Santhosh Narayanan, who recorded parts of it with a 70-piece orchestra in Budapest, Hungary.
- Actress Radhika Apte, who plays Kabali's wife, learned to speak Tamil specifically for this role, as it was her first Tamil film.
- A special 'Kabali' hairstyle, featuring grey streaks, became a popular trend among fans in South India after the film's release.
- The movie had a massive worldwide release with over 6,000 screens, including a significant number in Malaysia where the story is set.
- Director Pa. Ranjith included subtle references to Dalit empowerment and anti-caste themes through dialogues and character backgrounds, continuing his signature style.
Frequently Asked Questions
News & Stories
Pa.Ranjith’s directorial venture “Kabali” is a Gangster-drama film starring Rajinikanth and Radhika Apte as the leads has completed 200 days. The movie cast includes Dhansika, Nasser, John Vijay, Dine…
