"I vote where I live": Kalidas Jayaram fires back at trolls over voting in Chennai

CHENNAI: Actor Kalidas Jayaram has stepped up to clear the air after social media users questioned why he and his family, who are prominent figures in the Kerala film industry, were casting their votes in Tamil Nadu.

The controversy began following the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections, where photos and videos of Kalidas, his father Jayaram, mother Parvathy, and wife Tarini Kalingarayar went viral as they exercised their franchise in Chennai. Fellow Malayali star Dulquer Salmaan was also seen voting in the city, sparking a heated debate online.

Social Media backlash

Many netizens questioned the stars' "Malayali credentials," with some critics even suggesting that if they vote in Chennai, their films should only be released there. The backlash highlighted a recurring tension regarding the residency and political participation of high-profile actors who work across state borders.

Kalidas sets the record straight

Responding directly to a vlogger's query on Instagram, Kalidas provided a blunt and logical explanation for his choice of polling station.

"I'm a Chennai resident! Simple as that. I vote where I live," the actor wrote, accompanied by a halo emoji.

The actor’s response has since been widely shared, with many fans coming to his defence. Supporters pointed out that although the family is Malayali by heritage, they have been long-time residents of Chennai, making them eligible and responsible for voting in the state where they reside.