Rajinikanth’s debut in politics has been anticipated by fans for nearly 25 years (Archive)
New Delhi:
Actor Rajinikanth, who finally seemed ready to launch his political party with a “now or never” announcement earlier this month, has now decided to opt for the latter course, citing health concerns. “With extreme sadness I say that I cannot enter politics. Only I know the pain I went through when announcing this decision,” he said today in a statement, two days after his discharge from the hospital where he was admitted over the weekend. with fluctuations in blood pressure.
“Without getting into electoral politics, I will serve the people. This decision of mine will disappoint my fans and the people, but please forgive me,” said the statement from the actor, who mounted the Rajini Makkal Mandram two years ago with the promise of practicing. “spiritual politics”.
“My hospitalization was a warning from God. My campaign will have an impact on health in the midst of the pandemic,” he added, explaining the reason for his decision.
The 70-year-old’s debut in politics has been anticipated by fans for nearly 25 years, but despite weighing in on various issues, he didn’t take the plunge.
In October, he said doctors advised him to stay away from the heat and dust of a campaign. His immune system has weakened after a kidney transplant, making him more susceptible to the coronavirus, he said after a leaked letter, allegedly written by him, sparked speculation that he was delaying his political debut for health reasons.
The actor said the letter was not his, but the information was correct.
On December 3, Rajinikanth announced that he had decided to launch his party and participate in the elections in Tamil Nadu. “It’s now or never,” he had said.
The launch date was to be announced on December 31, and the launch was tentatively scheduled for January, five months before the state elections in Tamil Nadu. The date was expected to coincide with the Pongal festival or the birthday anniversary of MG Ramachandran, the founder of AIADMK.
The prospect had sparked much excitement as the upcoming elections promised to be mediocre in the absence of the two giants of Tamil Nadu politics, AIADMK’s J Jayalalithaa and DMK’s M Karunanidhi.
The deaths of both leaders have left a void in state politics, and it was hoped that the entry of Rajinikanth and fellow actor-politician Kamal Haasan would help fill the void.
After Rajinikanth’s announcement, Kamal Haasan had reiterated his willingness to work with him if their ideologies coincide.
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