Kamal Haasan proposes tie-up, Rajinikanth says ready if needed

Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief Kamal Haasan on Tuesday hinted at a potential alliance with fellow Tamil superstar Rajinikanth. The actor-turned-politician said that if the political situation in Tamil Nadu demands, he will join hands with Rajinikanth for the betterment of people of the state. Meanwhile, Rajinikanth said that he will definitely join hands with Haasan if there ever arises a political situation.

Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) founder and actor Kamal Haasan on Tuesday (November 19) backed superstar Rajinikanth over his comments describing Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami coming to the top post as a wonder. Haasan, however, parried questions on whether the two would align politically.

Also read: Kamal Haasan meets Prashant Kishor, but AIADMK also in talks with strategist

Rajinikanth had on Sunday (November 17) said Palaniswami “would not even have dreamt” of becoming the chief minister and described the AIADMK leader’s elevation as “wonder and marvel,” which had drawn a sharp reaction from the ruling party.

Also read: To BJP or not: Rajinikanth’s dilemma over political stance

Incidentally, the remarks were made at an event to mark Haasan’s 60 years in the cinema industry. “It is not a criticism, but reality… truth,” Haasan said on Tuesday when asked about his film industry contemporary’s remarks.

Also read: Celebrating 60 years of movie magic that’s Kamal Haasan

Rajinikanth had said, “Two years ago, Honourable Edappadi (Palaniswami) would not have even dreamt of becoming Tamil Nadu Chief Minister…. marvel and wonder – it happened.”

The ruling AIADMK has reacted sharply to Rajinikanth, saying Palaniswami did not become chief minister by chance but made his way up through party ranks by sheer hard work.

To a question, Haasan said he would “travel together,” with Rajinikanth for Tamil Nadu’s welfare but gave no indications of the two aligning politically.

While Haasan is already heading his MNM, Rajinikanth has said he will launch his political party and face the next state assembly elections, due in 2021.

“There is nothing new in us joining hands as we have been united for the past 44 years,” Haasan said about Rajinikanth, apparently referring to their stint in the cinema industry.

On the election of Gotabaya Rajapaksa as Sri Lankan President, Haasan said, “If he wants to be a good leader, he has to give a just rule.” As an elected person, he should duly cater to all sections of the society, he added.