Baba is a 2002 Tamil-language supernatural action-drama starring Rajinikanth, directed by Suresh Krissna, with screenplay and production helmed by Rajinikanth himself . Rajini portrays Baba, a free-spirited atheist and good Samaritan who indulges in drinking and smoking, living a bold, defiant lifeAn altercation with a corrupt politician demolishes Baba’s community. At his mother’s insistence, he rebuilds from scratch, working as a laborer. He distances himself from love, rejecting Chamundeswari (Manisha Koirala), believing that romantic attachments are mere illusions (maya) that hinder his altruismBaba’s life takes a mystical turn when a holy sage transports him to the Himalayas to meet Mahavatar Babaji—his own spiritual predecessor from a past life. There, Baba is granted seven (later revised to five) divine “wishes” or mantras to use at will, on the condition they are used selflesslyReturned to Chennai, Baba initially doubts the power’s authenticity until small miracles prove its reality. Soon, local politicians led by Deputy CM Ippo Ramaswamy and cronies—including a tantrik played by Amrish Puri—plot to exploit these miraculous powers for political gainOverpowered by corruption and greed, these authorities clash with Baba’s unwavering spirit. Armed with his divine gifts and moral conviction, Baba counters their schemes. His mantra-driven victories and heroism against villainous forces form the film’s dramatic backbone .Despite high production values, Rahman’s score, and Rajini’s sheer screen presence, the original release was criticized for its uneven pacing and narrative focus, and it underperformed at the box office—forcing Rajini to personally compensate distributors  However, it later garnered cult status, especially after its 2022 remastered re-release with a trimmed runtime and alternate ending .

Ultimately, Baba is the story of a defiant non‑believer transformed by spiritual power, as he fights political corruption and learns that true strength lies in selfless action—capturing a unique mix of devotion and masala-style heroism.