Chennai: Superstar Rajinikanth on Sunday broke his silence over political speculation that surfaced after the Tamil Nadu Assembly election results, firmly rejecting rumours that he was unhappy with actor-turned-politician Vijay’s rise to power.
Addressing a press conference at his Poes Garden residence in Chennai, Rajinikanth said he decided to speak because repeated criticism and rumours were being circulated in connection with the election. He said that if he did not respond, such claims could be accepted as truth.
Rajinikanth clarified that he had congratulated Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, after their victory. Responding to suggestions that he was jealous of Vijay becoming Chief Minister, he said he had stepped away from politics and had no reason to feel envious.
“I am not in politics. Why should I be jealous of Vijay?” Rajinikanth said, adding that he was shocked as well as happy when he heard about Vijay’s victory. He also said there was a major age gap between them and any talk of rivalry was unnecessary.
The actor also praised Vijay’s achievement, saying he had secured a remarkable political victory at the age of 52 by taking on the BJP at the Centre and two major parties in the state. Rajinikanth said he had great expectations from Vijay and extended his best wishes.
On his meeting with former Chief Minister M K Stalin after the results, Rajinikanth said it was purely personal. He said his friendship with Stalin was beyond politics and that he felt sad over Stalin’s defeat from Kolathur.
Rajinikanth also dismissed criticism over his absence from Vijay’s swearing-in ceremony, saying he had never attended such events earlier either.