Chennai: Filmmaker Cheran has stirred a political debate with his outspoken remarks on Tamil Nadu’s governance, questioning the long-standing dominance of Dravidian parties and urging voters to rethink their choices.

In a candid interaction, Cheran said that political awareness among the current generation has declined, with people no longer questioning those in power.

He alleged that an “illusion” has been created over decades that only the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) can govern the state.

“People have stopped asking questions. We’ve come to a stage where we don’t even evaluate government schemes. Fear has replaced democracy,” he said.

Cheran stressed that elected representatives are meant to serve the people, not rule over them. “No one, not M Karunanidhi, J Jayalalithaa, MK Stalin or Edappadi K Palaniswami, has been given ownership of this government,” he asserted.

Highlighting issues like corruption, bribery, drug circulation among students, environmental degradation, and rising public debt, the filmmaker said both major parties must be held accountable.

“We have given them 60 years. If problems persist under both, it’s time to look for alternatives,” he added.

On alternatives, Cheran named Seeman and actor-turned-politician Vijay as emerging figures but drew a clear distinction between them.

He said Seeman, with over a decade of political engagement, appears more grounded in people’s issues, while Vijay is still new and needs time to understand governance.

“Vijay has just entered politics. He needs at least five years to learn before seeking power,” Cheran said, adding that popularity alone cannot translate into leadership.

He also criticised dynastic politics, questioning the rise of successive leaders from the same family, and called on voters to reject such trends.

At the same time, he urged people not to overlook honest candidates within existing parties and emphasised the need for a strong opposition.

Drawing a comparison with Kerala’s political culture, Cheran cited an incident involving former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, where a citizen openly questioned him in public.

“That is democracy, people must have the right to question leaders without fear,” he noted.

Cheran concluded by urging voters to think critically and prioritise leaders who can guarantee basic amenities and a dignified life over those offering short-term benefits.