The latest buzz in K-Town is that Aditya Menon will be seen playing Superstar Rajinikanth in a bilingual, titled En Peru Rajinikanth (Main Hoon Rajinikanth in Hindi). However, the actor tells us that he will be playing the role of a CBI officer, Rajinikanth, and that the film is not a biopic of the Superstar, but one which will pay tribute to him.

“It’s been a tradition of sorts in Hollywood to pay tribute to a legend through a song or by naming a character after them. Back home, Chennai Express paid tribute to Rajinikanth with Lungi Dance. This film is our way of paying tribute to a living legend of India,” clarifies Aditya, adding, “Rajinikanth is no longer just an individual; he is an institution. After Chuck Norris, he is the only superstar to have one liners and stories on him.”

The film, directed by Faisal Saif, is about how Aditya’s character solves a crime in a day. “I don’t mirror Rajinikanth, don’t ape him or spoof him. I will have stones thrown at my house if I do that,” he laughs, “My character idolizes him and all the elements that make Rajinikanth what he is — standing for good, fighting evil and being strong.”

So, has the team sought permission from the Superstar for this film? Director Faisal says, “Since this film is a tribute, I think you need blessings more than permission. That said, we’ve taken all precautions to make sure that we don’t hurt Rajinikanth or his fans through this film.”