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Rajinikanth entering the political space in Tamil Nadu was big news. Kamal Hassan then entered politics too and Tamil Nadu was shaken. But, despite their huge fan-following, they both have similar messages in that they want TN to be an example to other states.
Rajinikanth’s address
On Sunday when Rajinikanth addressed his fans and called for unity of the Tamilian people and to put aside differences. Kamal Hassan too asked for Dravidian unity with regard to the southern Indian states. Unity seems to be the political message in Tamil Nadu at the moment. With his party that is still in the works to be formed, the Thalaivar is slowly building his foundation. He called for working for the public good and not for personal gains and expectations. He believed that should Tamil Nadu come together and solve their issues they would soon set an example for all the states. The superstar, showed humility, in asking his fans not to be disappointed should they lose. His idea was based on ‘selfless politics’. Gathering support from his fans, his Rajini Makkal Mandram will be turned into a political party.
The Politics
The two superstars in politics have clearly ruffled the feathers of the big guns in Tamilian politics, such as Stalin belonging to Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). While Hassan and Rajinikanth dominate cinema, the political terrain is a completely new space. It comes with different dynamics. There is no doubt their fan support is important, but it will require more than that for the two stars, to make a place for themselves. The difference is that the fans of these stars not only adore them, but they worship them. Therefore there is cause for the other parties in the playing field to be cautious.
Stalin on Sunday questioned Rajini on engaging in spiritual politics. He said it wouldn’t work. He made it clear that both the superstars were his friends outside of politics. Rajinikanth also visited Karunanidhi before making his entrance into politics. Tamil Nadu and the unity of the state, seem to be the political message sent to the people by all those who are playing for votes. Time will tell whether this unity does play out, or will differing loyalties rule politics?