Prakash Raj takes dig at Thalapathy Vijay’s political entry, questions ‘cinema model’ of politics ahead of Tamil Nadu elections

Famous actor Prakash Raj usually grabs attention because of the outspoken nature, but apart from this quality, he even speaks out against the central government. Currently, he has commented on his co-star Thalapathy Vijay for venturing into the field of politics. Meanwhile, Thalapathy is engrossed in campaigning for the elections in the state of Tamil Nadu for his political party known as TVK. The actor is critical of the style of politics based on movies.

During his visit to Palani for a campaign meeting organized for CPI(M) candidate N. Pandi, Prakash Raj mentioned three different styles of politics in the state including the Dravidian style, the Das style, and the cinema style. Addressing the gathering, Prakash Raj questioned the growing trend of film stars entering politics, clearly referring to Vijay. He said that while actors can play diverse roles on screen, real-life political engagement requires a different kind of accountability and commitment.

Prakash Raj said that in films, you can become a doctor, an engineer, or even a Chief Minister. But how can you directly become a Chief Minister in politics? Have you spoken about politics like me? Have you addressed the problems faced by the people of Tamil Nadu, or have you spoken out for the language or its self-respect? The people's love for you is for your talent, not for your politics. You can use this love for your politics.

Prakash Raj said that direct connection with people at the grassroots level is essential in politics. Citing the example of actor-politician Seeman, he said that Seeman has been continuously active in politics for over a decade, while many actors enter politics without a long period of involvement. He asked voters what kind of governance they prefer—the Dravidian model, the slave model, or the cinema model. The actor said that politics should be driven by the people, with elected representatives focusing on hard work at the grassroots level. Instead, he argued that in the current system, those in power often play politics while ordinary citizens bear the brunt of the actual work.

Taking a dig at Vijay, Prakash Raj said, "People showed you their love by standing in queues in the heat, putting up cut-outs, buying tickets, and neglecting their household chores, and now you're using that to enter politics? Look, if I like an actor, no matter how much I whistle, my throat will become hoarse. But I can't give them the country. Politics is different; cinema is different. That love is different; this responsibility is different. We have to go down to the grassroots and talk to the people."

Despite their political differences, Prakash Raj and Vijay have worked together in several films. The two have worked together in films like "Ghilli," "Sivakasi," "Villu," and "Aathi." They were last seen together in "Varisu." Their upcoming film, "Jana Nayakan," was scheduled for release earlier this year. However, due to a dispute with the censor board, the film has yet to be released.