A simple birthday wish, or rather the lack thereof on social media, has recently become a hotly debated topic among fans. As Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor Vijay celebrated his 52nd birthday on June 22, several celebrities, politicians and industry colleagues shared their wishes on social media. However, superstar Rajinikanth’s silence online soon caught the attention of fans, sparking speculation as to whether he deliberately chose not to acknowledge the incident.The veteran actor finally cleared the air on the rumors while attending the launch of his upcoming film Daman in Chennai on Wednesday.
Rajinikanth revealed that he personally contacted Vijay
After unveiling the film’s title and premiering it, Rajinikanth had a brief interaction with the media. When reporters asked him about the missing post of Vijay’s birthday, the superstar gave a straightforward explanation. “I’ve spoken to wish him well over the phone.”Rajinikanth responded briefly, ending days of online speculation by making it clear he expressed his desire privately and not through a public social media message.During the event, Rajinikanth also reflected on the scrutiny he often receives following his public statements. The actor admitted that he is now wary of public interactions because almost everything he says sparks controversy.“I feel hesitant when someone asks me to speak. Because every time I speak, it becomes a problem, whether it’s for you or for me.” The superstar pointed out that remaining silent is not the answer either, as it often leads to different types of criticism. “If I stay silent, they will tease me and say, why doesn’t he speak? Does he have kozhukattai in his mouth?”His comments drew laughter from those in attendance but also highlighted the pressures that come with being one of the country’s most high-profile public figures.
Rajinikanth talks about decades of high-profile lessons
Rajinikanth went on to share personal observations on dealing with public opinion after decades in the spotlight. “If I spoke, some would say, why is he speaking now? Others would say he shouldn’t be speaking at all.” The actor added that experience had taught him not to seek universal approval.“Years later, I’ve learned one thing: People who don’t like us won’t like us, no matter what we do. And it’s foolish to think that people who do like us will like everything we do, no matter what we do.” One must be careful. “The latest speculation comes weeks after Rajinikanth was forced to clear up rumors about his relationship with Vijay after the Tamil Nadu election results were announced. Social media was abuzz with suggestions that the superstar was unhappy with Vijay’s political success, prompting Rajinikanth to hold a press conference at his Poes Garden residence.He denied the rumors at the time and said, “Ragini is not a cheap or low-standard person and does not talk about anything unnecessary. I was shocked when I heard that Vijay became the chief minister. I congratulated the Chief Minister as soon as he won. “He further denied any suggestion of a rivalry between the two stars. “I am not in politics, why should I be jealous of Vijay? Maybe if Kamal becomes CM, I might be jealous. There is a generation gap of 25 years between Vijay and me. It would not look good if we competed.”
Start a new chapter with ‘Dharman’
While questions about Vijay dominated the interaction, the highlight of the event itself was the announcement of Rajinikath’s 173rd film Dharman. Produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International and directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, the project marks a landmark collaboration between two legends of Tamil cinema.Rajinikanth was last seen in Coolie and with the official release of Daman, attention has once again turned from political speculation to the superstar’s much-anticipated return to the big screen.
