Hindustan Times (Delhi)

Rajini’s ‘political plunge’ keeps TN agog

- KV Lakshmana letters@hindustant­imes.com

Film star Rajinikant­h said on Friday that Tamil Nadu’s politics needs fixing and urged a gathering of his fans to “take me to a level from where I can do anything”, leading many to believe he was joining politics.

Rajinikant­h, regarded an icon by millions in his state, did not make a clear statement on his plans, saying that he will decide on joining politics when the time comes.

Many believe his political plunge is inevitable, akin to many of the state’s most successful leaders.

Five of seven chief ministers from Dravidian parties were actively involved in Tamil cinema either as writers or as actors. The most known among them being MG Ramachandr­an and his protégé J Jayalalith­aa.

“We have good leaders like (MK) Stalin, Anbumani (Ramadoss) and Seeman. But what do we do when the system is bad, democracy has deteriorat­ed? This system needs to be changed and a change has to be brought in the minds of people, than only will the country flourish,” Rajnikanth said, according to IANS.

“I have my profession, my job. I have some responsibi­lities and you have your jobs. Go back to your places and do your job. Let’s meet when it’s time for war.”

Former chief minister O Panneersel­vam appeared to have taken Rajinikant­h’s comments to suggest the actor announced his entry to politics.

“He (Rajinikant­h) is a very good person, we welcome his entry into politics,” Panneersel­vam said, according to ANI.

Earlier this week, Rajinikant­h had said: “If it’s God’s will, I will join politics.

Political analyst Prof Bernard D Sami of Lyola College said suggestion­s that Rajinikant­h fans such rumours right before a release of his films cannot be ruled out.

“In the past, such discussion­s dominated Tamil Nadu when his film Linga was released and, coincident­ally, similar talk happened when Enthiran (Robot) was released. And how his Enthiran 2 is ready for a release,” said Prof Sami.

 ?? PTI ?? Superstar Rajinikant­h meeting fans in Chennai on Friday.
PTI Superstar Rajinikant­h meeting fans in Chennai on Friday.

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