There is space for a good leader, I am coming to fill it: Rajinikanth
This was Rajini’s first public address after his announcement that he was entering politics…
Superstar Rajinikanth on Monday announced that he hoped to fill the space that had been created for a good leader by the death of AIADMK Supremo J Jayalalithaa and the ill health of DMK Chief M Karunanidhi.
Addressing his first public meeting at the Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute in Chennai after his announcement that he was entering politics, Rajini said, “People ask me why I didn’t get into politics when Jayalalithaa was alive. They wonder if I exploited the vacuum in politics. There is a space for a good leader. Nobody can question Jayalalithaa’s leadership. Similarly, the case with Karunanidhi. They were great leaders. He is also not well now. There is a space for a good leader and I am coming to fill that space.”
The actor, who unvieled a statue of the Dr MGR at the venue before delivering the candid and hard-hitting speech, said, “The government of the day and politicians ask why actors are coming to take over their jobs as politicians. I am 67 years now. As you are not doing your duty, I am stepping in.”
Urging his fans to remove banners that they had put up, the actor said, “I think we have violated the court’s rules on banners. I request you all to avoid it.”
The actor spoke at length about his association with MGR and the manner in which he had managed to stave off competition from the legendary Sivaji Ganesan in the film industry and the master strategist Karunanidhi in politics.
He also for the first time, spoke of his personal relationship with the late leader.
On the occasion, the actor urged college students not to enter politics and to focus on studies.
He said,”At this point, your education is what is important. Know everything about politics. But focus on your studies. Even if I start a party, do not come to politics at this age. Be aware of all that is happening and just cast your vote correctly.”
