Rajini goes on a 15-day sabbatical to Himalayas

Rajinikanth was spotted at the airport on Saturday before his flight and took a couple of minutes to talk to the press. 

He stated that his trip to the Himalayas would last for a minimum of 15 days, and that he would decide the rest once he returns to Chennai. He also said that no major political announcements are in store from his side. 

When asked about the recent spate of violence against women in the state, Rajinikanth merely said ‘Vanakkam’ and walked away, without answering the question. This has spurred some negative publicity for the actor on social media, with many questioning why he hasn’t voiced out against incidents like the death of pregnant woman Usha in Tiruchy. Many have pointed out that Rajinikanth’s friend and political contemporary Kamal Haasan has been active to comment on such issues, with the latter even donating Rs 10 lakh to Usha’s family at his recent Women’s Day event. 

It remains to be seen what Rajinikanth’s policies will be once he returns to Chennai. Raju Mahalingam, secretary of Rajini Makkal Mandram and VM Sudhakar, All-India Rajinikanth Fans Association Administrator are expected to handle his political campaign for the next two weeks.