One of the first screenings of the new Hrithik Roshan starrer, Kaabil, will be held for Rajinikanth, who showered praise on the actor’s performance in the film’s trailers.

Says a proud Rakesh Roshan, “I’m elated by Rajini’s praise. If you remember, Hrithik’s first film, Bhagwan Dada, was with Rajini. Hrithik was only 12-years-old when he faced the camera with the legend.”

Bhagwan Dada had released in 1986, and was directed by Hrithik’s maternal grandfather, J. Om Prakash. Little Roshan had played the protagonist Govinda, who reforms the criminal Bhagwan, played by Rajinikanth.

Hrithik’s self confidence in front of the camera even back then had taken Rajinikanth by surprise, and he had predicted stardom for Hrithik. Says Rakesh fondly, “That an iconic superstar like Rajini has complimented Hrithik makes me a very proud father. We’ve been friends for years, and although we don’t get the time to speak regularly, Rajini and I respect one another immensely, and this will never change. The last time Rajini spoke with me was during the release of Krissh, when he had complimented both Hrithik and me.”

A special screening of Kaabil is on the cards for Rajini, announces Rakesh. “We’re going to show Kaabil to Rajini very soon.” The movie’s Tamil and Telugu versions are all set for release simultaneously with the Hindi version on January 25.