Palani: During a campaign trail for CPM candidate N Pandi in Palani, veteran actor Prakash Raj took a sharp swipe at the intersection of stardom and governance, specifically targeting the political debut of his long-time collaborator, Vijay. As the Tamil Nadu elections approach, Raj categorises the current political landscape into three distinct frameworks: the "Dravidian model”, the "slave model” and the "cinema model”.

Addressing an energetic crowd, Prakash Raj questioned the credentials of "big actors" who transition from the silver screen to the political arena. He took direct aim at Vijay’s newly formed party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), arguing that fan loyalty should not be mistaken for a mandate to lead a state.

“In a film, you can be a doctor, an engineer or a Chief Minister. But in reality, where were you when Tamil Nadu faced issues with its language, its people, or its self-respect? This isn't an election between AIADMK and DMK, or even for the TVK, as Vijay says. This is a battle between unity and division,” Raj stated.

The actor emphasised that the devotion fans show in theaters—buying tickets and erecting cut-outs—should not be exploited for electoral gain. He urged the public to distinguish between entertainment and executive responsibility. “People stood in queues in the heat, put up cut-outs, bought tickets and ignored their homes and work to show you love, and now you are using that for your political entry? Look, if I like an actor, I can whistle until my throat goes hoarse. But I cannot give them the country. Politics is different; cinema is different. That love is different; this responsibility is different. One must get on the ground and speak,” he added.

Despite the political friction, Prakash Raj and Vijay share a storied professional history. The duo became iconic through films like Ghilli, where Raj’s character famously used the term "chellam" (dear) for Vijay—a nickname he still uses for the star today. They most recently shared the screen in the 2023 hit Varisu and are set to appear together in the upcoming film Jana Nayagan. While Raj had previously wished Vijay luck on his "new journey" via social media, his recent comments suggest a clear boundary between their personal friendship and the political future of Tamil Nadu.