‘I’m not jealous’: Actor Rajinikanth shuts down talk over Vijay’s political rise as CM

Breaking weeks of intense speculation and clearing the air over mounting online criticism, Tamil cinema icon Rajinikanth on Sunday firmly dismissed rumours of political jealousy regarding actor-politician Vijay's historic ascent as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Addressing media persons outside his Poes Garden residence in Chennai, the veteran actor said he was "extremely shocked" by the sheer magnitude of Vijay’s political breakthrough. He strongly defended his recent courtesy meet with Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin, calling social media narratives suggesting he was conspiring against the newly elected government as "cheap."

The press meet follows a political shake-up in Tamil Nadu, where Vijay's newly formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) disrupted decades of DMK-AIADMK dominance by emerging as the single largest entity in the assembly, with Vijay sailing through a subsequent floor test to become Chief Minister.

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'Extremely shocked' and full of praise

Addressing critics who questioned why he hadn't spoken extensively to reporters at the airport earlier in the week, Rajinikanth clarified that he had sent his congratulations via X (formerly Twitter) the moment the results were declared.

Refuting claims that he envied Vijay's sudden political peak, Rajinikanth praised the 52-year-old CM for achieving a historic feat independently.

"I was extremely shocked when I heard that Vijay had become the Chief Minister. There is a 25-to-28-year age difference between Vijay and me. If I compare myself with him, it is not good for me," said Rajnikanth.

The Jailer star further said that Vijay, at the age of 52, has achieved more than what MGR or NTR achieved.

"I am not jealous, but I have a mix of surprise and happiness. I appreciate him. What is destined for someone will happen. Vijay has high expectations from the people, and I believe he will fulfill them," he continued.

The Stalin meeting

The primary catalyst for the press conference, however, was the heavy political spin given to Rajinikanth's post-election visit to the residence of defeated DMK leader MK Stalin.

Rumours circulating in Chennai's political circles alleged that the veteran actor was consulting with the DMK leadership to form a unified front to destabilise or undermine Vijay’s upcoming governance.

Rajinikanth categorically slammed those narratives. "After the election results, I met Mr Stalin. That drew some harsh criticism. Mr Stalin has been my close friend for 38 to 40 years. Our friendship is beyond politics," he said.