Will he, won't he? Rajinikanth's political-plans to be known soon
What's the story
Rumors about Rajinikanth's entry into politics have made the rounds since long, but we'll finally have an answer on December 31, when the superstar himself makes a formal announcement.
Though buzz started decades ago, speculations have grown intense after AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa's demise.
Karunanidhi, leader of the main opposition DMK, is also not in good health.
What does this mean for Tamil Nadu politics?
History
Rajinikanth's brush with politics
Rajinikanth has had some experience with politics. In the mid-1990s, he supported the Congress, but his endorsement didn't help it win.
In 1996, he said, "If Jayalalithaa is voted back to power, even god cannot save Tamil Nadu." Coincidentally, AIADMK then faced a crushing defeat.
Earlier this year, he added fuel to the 'will-he-won't-he' speculations when he said, "We should change the 'rotten' system."
Options
Which party will he join?
In the last few months, Rajinikanth has reportedly met a lot of political leaders.
Someone claimed Rajinikanth said he "was being pressurized... not from family or fans, but a central party."
There are reports he may float his own party.
But BJP, which has no presence in TN, has been trying to woo the superstar. He was invited to meet PM Narendra Modi too.
Do you know?
Protests against Rajinikanth's speculated entry into politics
There have been protests by pro-Tamil groups including the Thamizhar Munetra Padai about the actor's political entry. Their contention is that there are many Tamils who could rule the state, and they didn't need an immigrant from another state to rule over them.
Details
Superstar gives mixed signals about plans
It seems likely he will enter the arena soon. Addressing fans in Chennai, he said today, "I'm not new to politics. I got delayed. I will announce a decision on December 31."
However, he added: "I am hesitant to enter politics since I know its dynamics."
In an upcoming six-day outreach program, he will meet 1,000 fans across 18 districts.
Do you know?
Kamal Haasan finally announced his own political plans last month
Last month, on his 63rd birthday, Kamal Haasan, another legend in TN, formally announced his plans to enter politics. He has said he would float his own party, though not much movement has been noticed in that front, reports The Wire.
Implications
What does all this mean for the state's politics?
Tamil Nadu politics has been in disarray since Jayalalithaa's death.
AIADMK has been experiencing in-fighting, DMK has been clamoring for fresh elections and BJP has been trying to make in-roads.
TN, which has a soft-corner for celebrity-turned-politicians, might welcome Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan as new faces of TN's politics.
However, it depends on how they take the plunge and initiate their journey.