Rajinikanth Yogi Meeting: August 11th has proven to be a significant day for the Indian film industry, offering a much-needed boost regardless of geographical boundaries. Among the notable beneficiaries of this cinematic resurgence is none other than the revered “Thalaivar,” Rajinikanth.
His latest cinematic endeavor, “Jailer,” has risen to remarkable heights, standing as a monumental success. The film’s domestic earnings have soared to almost 400 crores, and its global reach has nearly breached the 500-crore mark, thereby giving a huge sigh of relief to the emerging PAN India industry.
Yet, it’s not the movie’s financial triumph that has thrust Rajinikanth into the spotlight. Rather, it’s a surprising turn of events stemming from his recent visit to Uttar Pradesh (UP). During this visit, he met with none other than the Chief Minister of UP, Yogi Adityanath. What truly set tongues wagging, however, was gesture of Rajinikanth of touching the feet of the Chief Minister Yogi, a move that has sent some of the self-proclaimed intellectual circles into a frenzy.
#WATCH | Actor Rajinikanth meets Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath at his residence in Lucknow pic.twitter.com/KOWEyBxHVO
— ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2023
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This statement was enough to send the left liberals into a massive meltdown. The irony and humor of the situation were hard to miss.
The brouhaha commenced with one user expressing their dismay, exclaiming, “Rajinikanth bows down to Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath. Appalled by the spineless, hypocritical coward Rajini for falling at the feet of a hate monger. A new low!”
#Rajinikanth bows down to Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath.
Appalled by the spineless, hypocritical coward Rajini for falling at the feet of a hate monger. A new low! 🤡🤦🏼♂️
— raja sekhar.g (@Rajasek08221567) August 19, 2023
The over-the-top reaction was further amplified by actor Siddharth, known more for his ‘impassioned rants’ than his cinematic achievements. He fervently declared, “Someone who touches a bloodthirsty bigot’s feet in respect doesn’t deserve to be called Thalaivar.” It’s quite evident that such fervent expressions fell on indifferent ears.
Someone who touches a bloodthirsty bigot’s feet in respect doesn’t deserve to be called Thalaivar.
— Siddharth (@DearthOfSid) August 19, 2023
A self-proclaimed reviewer George took to X with a lengthy critique, outlining a paradox they perceived between Rajinikanth’s on-screen persona and his off-screen actions. They pointed to the dissonance between his portrayal as a politically-conscious activist on screen and his real-life interaction with right-wing leader Yogi Adityanath. The post raised questions about the alignment between public personas and personal values, ultimately urging readers to be discerning when choosing their heroes.
In #Kaala movie, #Rajinikanth plays a politically-conscious Dalit who fights against a right-wing leader. He is seen praying among the Muslims. He is seen asking Hari Dhadha'a grand daughter not to touch his feet and just say Namaste.
In real life, he meets and greets a… pic.twitter.com/aaWkkraSK7
— George 🍿🎥 (@georgeviews) August 19, 2023
Yet, this isn’t Rajinikanth’s first brush with controversy, nor is it his inaugural dance with irate liberals. Rajinikanth’s staunch Hindu beliefs have previously ignited uproar. A case in point is his bold confrontation with the iconic EV Periyar Ramaswamy, a towering figure in Tamil politics.
Rajinikanth openly criticized a controversial 1971 rally orchestrated by Periyar, wherein Hindu deities Ram and Sita were reportedly depicted in an unflattering manner. The rally featured a naked image of the deities and a garland of slippers. Unsurprisingly, Rajinikanth’s stance didn’t sit well with certain quarters.
Dravidian outfits in the region vehemently opposed Rajinikanth’s stance, leading to a fierce backlash. However, the superstar stood his ground, providing evidence from news articles to back his claims and staunchly refusing to apologize. This resolute refusal to backtrack displayed his unwavering conviction in the face of opposition.
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The overarching theme in these incidents is Rajinikanth’s steadfastness in embracing his beliefs, regardless of the opinions that may swirl around him. Whether it’s his on-screen presence or his real-world interactions, he seems unafraid to challenge prevailing norms and provoke contemplation. This resolute demeanor, though drawing scorn and critique, also garners admiration from those who value authenticity.
Rajinikanth demonstrates an unyielding spirit that triggers impassioned reactions across the spectrum. As discussions continue to swirl around him, Rajinikanth’s actions provoke introspection, highlighting the complexity of the individual behind the celebrity facade.
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