A political row involving Rajinikanth and the camp of Vijay has intensified ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, after controversial remarks by
a senior leader of the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Rajinikanth broke his silence through a post on X, expressing displeasure over comments made by TVK general secretary Aadhav Arjuna. Thanking those who defended him, he wrote, "to everyone who condemned his (Arjuna's) slanderous remarks and raised their voices...Time doesn’t speak, but it waits and gives the answer". The veteran actor also acknowledged support from leaders across parties, including Leader of Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami and Tamil Nadu BJP chief K. Annamalai. The controversy erupted after Arjuna claimed that Rajinikanth had stayed away from politics due to alleged threats from the DMK’s first family. The claim contradicts Rajinikanth’s 2020 announcement, where he cited health concerns and the Covid-19 pandemic as reasons for not entering politics. The remarks triggered sharp reactions. Palaniswami termed them "politically indecent" and came out in strong defence of the actor. "Rajinikanth is a respected cinematic personality admired beyond politics. Speaking in a manner that tarnishes his reputation is unacceptable. Entering politics is an individual's right, and so is choosing not to. He has explained his reasons, and they must be respected," he said. Annamalai also hit out at Arjuna, calling the claims an “illusion”, and said Rajinikanth’s ability to remain relevant for over five decades reflected exceptional “mental strength”. The row has also cast a shadow on potential alliance talks between the BJP-led NDA and Vijay’s TVK. Reports suggest that the BJP had offered Vijay the post of Deputy Chief Minister if the alliance wins, along with a proposal of up to 80 seats. As TVK gears up for its electoral debut, banking on Vijay’s mass appeal, the controversy adds a fresh twist to an already heated contest. The state is headed for a four-cornered fight on April 23, with results scheduled for May 4, as the ruling DMK seeks a second term and the AIADMK-BJP alliance attempts a comeback.
