Veteran actor Rajinikanth said he was "extremely shocked" after hearing that actor-turned-politician Vijay had become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
The remarks came as Rajinikanth addressed criticism surrounding his recent meeting with former Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and his perceived political stance.
Rajinikanth said he decided to address the media because repeated criticism could otherwise be accepted as truth. "I am holding this press meet because many criticisms are being made about me in connection with the election. If I do not respond, they will become accepted as the truth," he said, as quoted by News18.
Beyond Politics
Rajinikanth said his relationship with Stalin was personal and not connected to politics. He said the meeting after the election results had triggered criticism despite their long-standing friendship.
"After the election results, I met M.K. Stalin, and that became a subject of criticism. Our friendship is beyond politics. I felt saddened that M.K. Stalin was defeated in Kulathur," he said.
He added that he congratulated the newly elected Chief Minister immediately after the official results were announced.
Rajinikanth also reiterated that he had stepped away from active politics years ago. "I am not in politics anymore. It has been a long time since I stepped away from politics," he said, quoted by News18.
Vijay's Rise
Speaking about Vijay's political emergence, Rajinikanth said the actor had built his own political identity independent of established parties.
"There is a 28-year age difference between Vijay and me. Vijay has independently earned recognition by standing against the two major parties," he said.
Rajinikanth added, "I was extremely shocked when I heard that Vijay had become the Chief Minister."
Public Debate
The clarification comes amid public discussion over Vijay's political rise and Rajinikanth's meetings with senior political leaders in Tamil Nadu.
Rajinikanth said he respects leaders across political parties and urged people not to misinterpret his statements.
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