Decision not for fame or money: Rajinikanth

“This is not cinema. Our first task is to bring everyone on board, and have our mandrams everywhere in the state. Until then, let us not discuss politics or criticise politicians – there are others to do that! Let us not swim on land, we will do that as we enter the water,” he said. 

Referring to his close friend Cho Ramaswamy, Rajini said that he missed him a lot. “Having him near me gave me the strength of ten elephants. His soul will always be with me,” he said. “I’m not afraid of entering politics, but the media does scare me. Even bigshots are afraid of media... I’m just a child, imagine my plight. If I say anything at all, it becomes a controversy!” he laughed.

Making it clear that he was batting for clean politics, Rajini said that his political entry is not for fame or money. “You have already given that to me – way beyond my dreams. I could have taken the ‘throne’ in 1996 if I wanted to, but turned it down. When I did not crave for power at 45, why would I desire it now at 67? The reason is that politics has become corrupt, and democracy is losing ground,” he said. 

Rajinikanth concluded his speech, saying that he would start his party before the assembly elections, and inform the public of his plans – “If we cannot keep our word, we will resign in three years. 

Our motto is truth, hard work and progress. We will think good, speak good and do good. Our army will join in the war. Long live Tamilians!”