Haasan: Don't see much difference between films and politics
Superstar Kamal Haasan began his political journey with a visit to former president APJ Abdul Kalam's residence in Rameswaram. He, however, faced his first hurdle when he was denied permission to visit the elementary school where the former president studied. Haasan also met fishermen there before visiting Kalam's memorial. Later, he will head to Madurai to launch his political party. Here's all about it.
What did Haasan's visit to Kalam's house indicate?
The actor-turned-politician began his political tour "Naalai Namathey (Tomorrow is ours)" from Kalam's house. He joined the late president's family for breakfast. An overwhelmed Haasan tweeted "Greatness can come from simple beginnings. Glad to start my journey from a great man's simple adobe." With this visit, Haasan is conveying that his ideas for the nation and TN are derived from Kalam's school of thought.
Why did the school education department deny Haasan permission?
However, Haasan wasn't allowed to visit Kalam's school. The school education department claimed that no political events were allowed in the school premises. Several policemen were deployed outside the school with barricades for restricting entry. Haasan claimed there is "politics involved" in the ban.
'I have come to join the fishermen'
Haasan then went on to meet the fishermen community. He declared that "fishing is one of TN's most important livelihood options." He claimed that he wanted to understand their issues. Assuring them of his support, Haasan said that international sea-border issues need to be re-discussed. A fisherman proclaimed, "Haasan has now taken our problems into his hands. The Centre isn't taking notice of us."
How is Haasan itinerary for today?
Interestingly, Haasan has chosen "International Mother Language Day" to launch his political party. After visiting Kalam's memorial, the national award-winning actor will address three meetings in Ramanathapuram, Paramakudi and Manamadurai in Sivganga district. From there, he will proceed to Madurai for the party's unveiling. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal will probably attend the inauguration, while Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's video message will be screened.
Meanwhile, DMK's Stalin took a veiled dig at Haasan
But, ahead of the launch, DMK working president MK Stalin took a veiled dig at Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth. He likened them to 'glamorous paper flowers' that don't spread fragrance. He said, "some flowers bloom and wither seasonally. In TN's political arena too, glamorous paper flowers may bloom." Haasan retorted, "I am not a flower, I am a seed, sow me, I will grow."
What do we know of Haasan's political ideology until now?
Haasan hasn't revealed his political ideology. But, he has made indirect references to what it entails. He wants to pursue Dravidian politics, uniting Southern states. Further, he has lashed out against corruption and bad governance in TN. Claiming that his color isn't "saffron," he has sworn off religious/communal politics. Now, with people hailing him as "the second Kalam," will Haasan live up to the expectations?
