The highly anticipated audio launch of superstar Rajinikanth 2.0, which took place in Dubai on Friday evening, was nothing short of a lifetime experience. The event was hosted by RJ Balaji, Rana Daggubati and Karan Johar who took turns and spoke in three languages to keep audiences hooked and entertained. The event began with an AV on the film and it gave audiences a glimpse into the world of Rs. 400 crore magnum opus 2.0, which is gearing up for release during Republic Day weekend next year. Going by the effort taken to organize the event, it goes without saying that the makers have successfully registered the thought that 2.0 is the next biggest motion picture from India, and the same was reiterated by the hosts throughout the evening.

Well-known director P. Vasu was one among the first guests to address the gathering. Having worked with superstar Rajinikanth on a few occasions, he’s best remembered for Chandramukhi. In his speech, he shared about his earliest memories with superstar, and also said that director Shankar has no competition because he competes with himself and his own work. After the speech of few other guests, audiences witnessed an enthralling performance by a group of dancers who shook leg to the best hits in the combination of Shankar and Rahman.

Abbas Tyrewala, who has written the lyrics and dialogues for Hindi version of the film, heaped praise on Shankar for continuing to inspire with his films. A representative from Tau Films, one of the VFX companies that are working on the film, said 2.0 was the most challenging work they have taken up so far. He added that they’re working very hard to match Shankar’s vision and bring the magic on screen. According to VFX supervisor Srinivas Mohan, 11 studios from around the globe are working to ensure 2.0 gives viewers the best visual effects experience. When it was editor Anthony’s turn to speak, he took everyone by surprise by confirming that the running time of the film will be just 2 hours 20 minutes, making it the shortest Shankar film ever. Most Shankar films are nearly three hours long but he made an exception with 2.0 because it’s a 3D film and audiences will find it very difficult to wear 3D glasses and watch a film for so long.

When it was superstar Rajinikanth’s turn to speak, the crowd went berserk and everybody was on their feet. Host RJ Balaji asked him how it feels to have completed 40 years in the industry.

Have one yet unfulfilled dream – Rajinikanth

“I don’t even remember how these 40 years passed. It still feels like 4-5 years. If not for god’s grace and the love of my fans, I wouldn’t have come this far. These 40 years have taught me that fame and money only bring minimum happiness. When people ask me is it difficult to be Rajinikanth, I tell them it’s only possible because of my faith in the almighty.” As a word of advice to his fans, superstar said: “Support good films and encourage good talent. If you don’t like a film, please avoid spreading negativity through social media.” Rajinikanth also spoke a few lines in Hindi and answered questions by Karan Johar. When he was asked if he has an unfulfilled dream, Rajinikanth said: “There is one yet unfulfilled dream. Let’s see what happens to it.” It’s quite possible that he could be referring to his political dream. Thalaivar also said that the younger generation is slowly forgetting its tradition and culture which is worrisome.

2.0 is not an extension of Enthiran - Shankar

Filmmaker Shankar, in his speech, reiterated that 2.0 is not an extension of Enthiran, though the project is being promoted as a sequel. “We have incorporated a global message which is the need of the hour. The film features a few familiar characters from Enthiran.” Shankar thanked Rajinikanth’s effort for the film even when he was not in his pink of health. “Even while undergoing treatment, Rajini sir shot in the blistering summer heat of Delhi, wearing a 12 kg suit and I really need to thank him from the bottom of my heart. We also shot a sequence in the underground and he didn’t have any qualms of shooting in such condition. Despite being an actor for 40 years, even today he aspires to do something different and his energy is unmatchable.”

The highlight of evening was the live performance by A.R Rahman, who mesmerized audiences with the tracks from the album. 2.0 has only 3 tracks and the makers release two on streaming platforms on Friday night. The third song, though was performed at the event, will be officially released much later. The unreleased track was penned by late lyricist Na. Muthukumar.