'I have no jealousy towards Vijay, felt surprised and happy seeing his victory'; Rajinikanth responds

CHENNAI: Actor Rajinikanth said that he is no longer active in politics and has stayed away from political activities for several years. The actor made the remarks while speaking to the media at his residence in Poes Garden, Chennai.

Rajinikanth had recently come under criticism after meeting DMK president M K Stalin following the DMK's unexpected defeat in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Responding to the criticism, Rajinikanth said that he and Stalin share a close friendship, which is why he met him.

The actor also denied reports claiming he was jealous of Vijay becoming Chief Minister.

“I saw several criticisms being raised against me. That is why I decided to speak to the media now. Many people are saying that I am jealous because Vijay became the Chief Minister. I left politics years ago. There is a 25-year age difference between Vijay and me. I have no jealousy towards him,” Rajinikanth said.

“He came to power after defeating two major parties. I felt surprised and happy about it. Vijay became Chief Minister at the age of 51. I have great expectations of him, and I extend my best wishes to him,” he added.

Rajinikanth also said that his friendship with Stalin goes beyond politics. “The friendship between Stalin and me is beyond politics. That is why I went to meet him,” he explained.