Rumours that the popular south Indian actor Dhanush is entering politics have come into circulation. The actor has made no formal announcement on the subject. But the organisational activity of his fan clubs, their welfare initiatives and some recent developments have set off a good deal of discussion in Tamil Nadu’s political circles.
In a speech to his fans, Dhanush called on them to become more active in social work. He said: “You have all gathered here today. Being able to come together like this is our strength. Put that strength to a clear purpose and stand beside people. Do more welfare work. Learn about your neighbours’ problems, become one of them and help them.”
The entry of film stars into Tamil Nadu politics is nothing new. Rajinikanth announced before the 2021 assembly election that he was entering politics. He spoke of “spiritual politics” but later withdrew from the decision. Since the actor Vijay formed his political party, discussion about Dhanush as another big star of the south has been growing.
There has also been speculation about Dhanush’s political thinking. His use of the invocation “Om Namah Shivaya” at the end of a recent speech prompted discussion about his political position.
The Times of India published a report on 9 July on the possibility of Dhanush entering politics. It said Dhanush’s father, the film-maker Kasthuri Raja, was asked at a recent event about his son’s political future. Kasthuri Raja had earlier remarked that some members of his family might enter politics in future. But when asked directly about Dhanush, he gave no answer.
Kasthuri Raja said: “I have said before that this question should be put to Dhanush himself.”
The same report carried remarks by Subramaniam Siva, a leader of Dhanush’s fan club and a director. Dismissing the speculation surrounding the fan club’s flag, he said it is not a new political flag. Fans have been using the flag for about 15 years at weddings, ear-piercing ceremonies, film releases and other occasions. Because the flag was made smaller this year for convenience on vehicles at the fan club meeting, many took it to be a new political symbol.
On the rumours of Dhanush entering politics, the ruling DMK said: “If anyone wants to come into politics we welcome them. Everyone can take part in a democratic system.”
For now, however, Dhanush’s main focus remains film. Several major projects of his are due for release over the next few years. So although the fan clubs’ activity and welfare work have fuelled political speculation, Dhanush himself has still made no announcement about entering politics.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report