In an old interview with DNA, Aishwarya Rai praised Thalaivar and compared him with her father-in-law Amitabh. "Rajini sir, like Pa (Amitabh Bachchan), is a professional, and he is modesty, humility personified. There was no age factor. They are both legendary actors due to their body of work. Hence, their films become thrilling to the viewers. Rajini sir's humility is a lesson to learn."