The actor compared the DMK to a classroom of old students, saying that while a teacher can manage new students, dealing with old ones is much harder.
Published Aug 26, 2024 | 4:51 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 26, 2024 | 4:51 PM
Rajinikanth; Duraimurugan. (X)
On 25 August, Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister and DMK General Secretary Duraimurugan responded to Superstar Rajinikanth’s comments about older politicians.
At a book release event honouring the late DMK leader M Karunanidhi on 24 August, Rajinikanth praised party leaders but also caused some embarrassment for older members.
The actor compared the DMK to a classroom of old students, saying that while a teacher can manage new students, dealing with old ones is much harder.
“DMK has many old students who refuse to leave even after passing their exams. Managing them is challenging. Duraimurugan, you could even make things difficult for Kalaignar (Karunanidhi). Hats off to Stalin sir,” Rajinikanth said, prompting laughter from the audience and those on the dais.
When asked about this by a journalist in Vellore on Sunday, Duraimurugan responded, “Just like how ageing actors with falling teeth and beards continue to act, denying opportunities to younger actors, it’s easy to make such comments.”
In response to Duraimurugan’s statement, Rajinikanth addressed the press this morning, saying, “He is my long-time friend. Whatever he says isn’t an issue… our friendship will always continue.”
Duraimurugan quickly replied, “I feel the same way. No one should interpret our jokes as hostility. We will always remain friends, just as we have been.”
Rajinikanth was once widely anticipated to make a significant entry into active politics and was courted by several parties, including the BJP.
However, in 2021, he withdrew due to health concerns and dissolved his nascent Rajini Makkal Mandram.
Despite this, he remains a major influence in Tamil society and politics, which is largely dominated by the Dravidian parties, particularly the DMK and AIADMK.
Meanwhile, Udhayanidhi Stalin, the state’s Youth and Sports Development Minister, supported Rajinikanth’s comments, stating, “The youth are eager and ready to join; we just need to provide them with the space.”
(Edited by S Subhakeerthana)
