/> Rajnikanth brought in his 62nd birthday with minimum ostentation and fanfare. His instruction to his fanatical fan clubs who turn his birthday every year into a veritable carnival was to go easy with the celebrations.

Says a source close to the actor, "Rajni Sir has always been hugely indulgent of his fans' desire to celebrate his birthday with fanfare.

But this time the fan clubs were very clearly instructed to go easy on the loud celebrations. After the illness Rajniji has lost his appetite for crowds and for flamboyant festivities. This birthday he just wanted to be quietly with his immediate family. "

Rajnikanth's wife Latha, his two daughters Aishwarya and Soundarya, and sons-in-law Dhanush and Ashwin spent the day with the mega-star.

Says Rajnikanth's daughter Soundarya, "It was lovely. We spent it together as a private family occasion. "