Rajinikanth Clarifies Meeting With MK Stalin After CM Vijay's Election Win: ‘Why Would I Be Jealous?'

Rajinikanth Clarifies Stalin Meeting After CM Vijay's Win: Actor Rajinikanth has addressed the discussions surrounding his recent meeting with DMK leader M. K. Stalin following the Tamil Nadu Assembly election results that brought Vijay to power.

Speaking to reporters at his Poes Garden residence in Chennai on Sunday, May 17, Rajinikanth clarified that his meeting with Stalin was purely personal and should not be interpreted politically. His remarks came amid social media discussions and criticism that emerged after Stalin's electoral defeat and Vijay's rise as the new Chief Minister.

According to a report published by India Today on May 17, Rajinikanth said there was no reason for him to feel jealous about Vijay becoming Chief Minister, as he himself is not part of active politics.

Addressing the speculation directly, Rajinikanth reportedly remarked in a light-hearted manner that he might have felt jealous only if actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan had become Chief Minister.

The veteran actor also revealed that he had congratulated Vijay soon after the election results indicated that the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) was heading toward victory. Rajinikanth admitted that he was surprised by Vijay's achievement, considering it was the actor-politician's first electoral contest.

Vijay's TVK emerged as the single-largest party in the recently concluded Assembly elections and later formed the government with support from Congress, CPI(M), CPI, and other allies. The result marks a notable shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, traditionally dominated by the DMK and AIADMK.

Rajinikanth On Vijay's Rise, Friendship With Stalin

During the interaction with the media, Rajinikanth said he decided to respond publicly because several narratives and criticisms involving his name were circulating after the election. He stated that remaining silent could lead to assumptions being treated as facts.

The actor further explained that his relationship with Stalin goes beyond politics and is rooted in friendship. Rajinikanth also expressed sadness over Stalin's defeat in the Kolathur constituency, where TVK candidate VS Babu secured victory by a margin of nearly 9,000 votes.

Rajinikanth additionally acknowledged Vijay's political rise, noting that the younger leader had managed to establish himself independently despite challenging two major Dravidian parties. He also pointed out the considerable age difference between them while commenting on Vijay's political journey.

Interestingly, Rajinikanth had earlier remained silent when questioned about Vijay taking office as Chief Minister on May 12. At the time, he simply greeted reporters with folded hands and walked away without making any statement.

The latest clarification from Rajinikanth has now drawn attention amid the continuing intersection of cinema and politics in Tamil Nadu, where film personalities have historically played influential political roles.