Rajinikanth not to launch political party, asks fans, people to forgive him

Actor Rajinikanth has said that he will not be foraying into politics and starting a political party, owing to his prevailing health conditions and the larger risk of the Covid-19 pandemic and the new strain of the virus. In a 3-page statement Tweeted out in Tamil, the actor apologized to fans and well-wishers who were highly anticipating his foray, mentioning that only he understands the pain of making this announcement. 

Elaborating the recent developments, Rajini states how he made an announcement regarding his political foray in January 2021 and went ahead with the shooting of his film in Hyderabad, despite Doctors advising against it. He makes a mention of how four crew members contracted Covid-19, despite all covid-19 protocols being strictly followed on their set. 

Rajini says that, testing negative for Covid-19, the fluctuations in his blood pressure was a cause for concern, as he is the recipient of a transplanted kidney. Citing his health setback, Rajini mentioned the film producer’s decision to further postpone the shooting and the resultant financial losses and losses of livelihood. He calls it a “warning from God”. 

The actor reasons that it would not be possible for him to gain traction among the masses and win an election by campaigning remotely, via social media. He highlights his vulnerable condition by comparing how he was hospitalized after a film shoot with 120 crew, and how he’d have to meet and interact with thousands of people as a politician, amid the second wave of Covid-19.

“Even if a vaccine becomes available, I am under immuno suppressants owing to the (kidney) transplant. If my health condition ends up deteriorating while campaigning, it would be an emotional and financial setback for those who are with me in this political journey” reads the statement. 

Just because people would speak ill of me in different ways, I don’t wish to make sacrificial lambs of those who believe and come along with me. The actor said this referring to his December 3rd announcement, where he said that he would not go back on his words(regarding entering politics), even if he lost his life. 

The actor apologized to his fans and well wishers who would feel cheated, owing to his backing out and thanked them (Rajini Makkal Mandram members) for their discipline and sincerity displayed over the last three years. He added that, all his life, he wouldn’t forget the words that his fans told him during a meeting on November 30th - “Your health is of utmost importance to us, whatever decision you take is okay with us”. He also expressed thanks to his fans and also advisors Arjunmoorthy and Tamilaruvi Manian, who had stood by him.

While he said no to a formal political foray, he added in the statement that his unified fan club Rajini Makkal Mandram would continue to function as usual. He added that he would continue to serve the people in his capacity, without formally entering politics. 

Requesting his fans and the people of Tamil Nadu to respect and accept his decision, he signed off saying that he never hesitated in telling the truth.