Rajinikanth breaks silence on Vijay ‘jealousy’ rumours, says ‘I am not in politics’ | WATCH

Actor Rajinikanth on Sunday addressed the controversy surrounding his meeting with MK Stalin and firmly rejected online claims that he was “jealous” of actor Vijay amid growing political discussions in the state.

Speaking at a press conference at his Poes Garden residence in Chennai, Rajinikanth said his meeting with Stalin after the election results was purely out of friendship and had nothing to do with politics. The veteran actor said the criticism and speculation that followed forced him to clarify his stand publicly.

“Stalin sir is my friend of 38 to 40 years. My friendship and principles are beyond politics,” Rajinikanth said while responding to questions over the now-controversial visit.

The actor added that in a democracy, victory and defeat are natural, but he still wanted to meet Stalin personally after the results. He said the visit was being unnecessarily linked to political calculations and rumours involving Vijay.

Rajinikanth said several political narratives started circulating online after his meeting with Stalin, including claims that certain forces were trying to stop Vijay’s political rise or prevent him from becoming Chief Minister in the future.

Without naming any political groups directly, the actor said speculation quickly spread on social media, with some alleging that discussions were taking place to politically isolate Vijay by bringing major parties together.

He dismissed those claims and said he was “not such a low-quality person” to engage in political games or speak against Vijay.

The actor also clarified another viral issue, criticism that he did not congratulate Vijay after recent political developments. Rajinikanth said he had already posted congratulatory wishes for Vijay on social media platform X immediately after the victory.

Addressing one of the biggest talking points online, Rajinikanth strongly denied rumours that he was jealous of Vijay’s growing political popularity.

“I have already stepped away from politics. When I am not in politics, why would I be jealous of him?” he said.

Rajinikanth also pointed to the nearly 25-year age gap between them and said comparisons between the two actors were unnecessary. He noted that Vijay had watched his films and career since childhood and said there was no reason for rivalry.

In a major statement likely to draw attention across Tamil Nadu political circles, Rajinikanth praised Vijay’s achievement and said entering politics and finding success at the age of 52 was remarkable.

“At such a young age, what he has achieved is even bigger than what MGR or NTR achieved,” he said, referring to legendary actor-politicians M. G. Ramachandran and N. T. Rama Rao.

He further said Vijay’s rise against strong political forces and established parties was “a happiness mixed with surprise” for him because both belong to the same film industry.

Rajinikanth added that there are now huge expectations from Vijay and expressed confidence that the actor would work for the welfare of people.

“I have faith that he will fulfil those expectations and do good for the people. My congratulations to him,” he said.

The actor also responded to criticism surrounding a viral airport interaction in which many believed he ignored questions related to Vijay.

Rajinikanth explained that before leaving for Bengaluru, he had checked whether media personnel would be present at the airport and was informed there would be none. However, while walking inside, a man holding a small phone suddenly approached him and mentioned Vijay becoming Chief Minister.

Since the person did not appear to be from the media, Rajinikanth said he simply smiled and walked away, which later triggered criticism online.

He maintained that the incident was misunderstood and repeated that he had already congratulated Vijay publicly.