Rajinikanth to NOT join politics: Here's what is in his 3-page statement

Earlier this month, Rajinikanth announced that he was taking some concrete steps for his political entry. He was supposed to announce the date of his political party's launch on December 31, just ahead of the New Year. With just three days left, Rajinikanth did make an announcement, but it was not what his fans expected. In a three-page statement shared on his social media accounts, Rajinikanth said, "I am not joining active politics." 

This decision comes in the aftermath of the actor being admitted in a Hyderabad hospital. Rajinikanth was in the city for the shooting of his next film, Annaatthe, when four crew members tested positive for COVID-19. Although he tested negative, Rajinikanth was admitted to the hospital due to blood pressure fluctuations and exhaustion.  

In today's statement, he said, "My health conditions forced Sun Pictures' Kalanidhi Maran to reschedule the shooting, and it resulted in the loss of employment for a lot of workers and the loss of crores of rupees for the producers. It was all because of my health, and I see this as a warning from God."

Rajinikanth explained that holding political rallies through digital media would not result in the kind of political change he wants to bring. He went on to add he cannot be physically present at the rallies and meetings owing to his ill health and the pandemic. "Even in a group of just 120 people, I fell sick. Now, with this new strain, and the fact that vaccinations might not be of much help as I take immunosuppressants for my other ailments, it wouldn't be fair to fall sick, and disrupt the plans of people who would embark on the political journey with me. It would be a huge setback for all of them, personally and financially."

Addressing the kind of criticisms that might come his way, especially since everything was ready for his political plunge and he had previously said even death would not stop him, Rajinikanth added, "I know what I've said, but I can't make others the scapegoats for my problems. So, I cannot start a party, and cannot join politics. Only I know the pain I'm going through while writing these words."

Rajinikanth further apologised to the members of his Rajini Makkal Mandram (RMM), his fans and people for rescinding his decision to start a political party. He urged RMM members to not lose heart and reminded them that the goodwill they've earned over the past three years will be a blessing in their lives. "Last November 30, all of you said that my health was paramount. I will never forget those words. I am forever indebted to all of you and bow my head to your love and affection," said Rajini, adding RMM will function as usual. 

Rajini also thanked politician Tamizharuvi Manian for his constant support. He also took the opportunity to express gratitude towards ex-BJP leader Arjun Moorthy, who left that party to join Rajini's political journey as the chief coordinator. 

Finally, Rajinikanth signed off, and said, "Even without being part of electoral politics, I will continue to serve the people in whatever ways I can. I have never shied away from speaking the truth. I wish Tamil people, who have always showered me with love and affection, see the truth and straight-forwardness of my decision and accept it."