Rajinikanth may form party on his birthday

It is expected that the 67-year-old will formally convert his Rajini Makkal Mandram (RMM) into a political party and announce its name and flag at a public meeting planned on that date. 

Stating that Tiruchy could be chosen to hold the meeting, RMM sources said all preparations for the mega function are underway.

It has been learnt that Rajinikanth has delegated the task of preparing for the launch event to a retired IPS officer. RMM members have also been roped in to co-ordinate and mobilise the supporters.

They expect at least 50,000 members from all districts of the State to attend the meeting. A call for like-minded organisations and individuals to be part of the new party is also likely to be issued soon, leading to speculations over who would attend the meeting.

While there were speculations that the party launch might take place during Pongal next year, sources told DTNext that the Kaala star has preponed it to avoid internal discord in the mandram. 

 “Furthermore, since the shooting of his next film Petta has been progressing at a brisk pace, he feels confident that he will be able to balance his party work along with the rest of the shooting schedule,” a source said.

“Despite reports of internal issues, he (Rajinikanth) is extremely happy with RMM’s membership drive and the extensive work the organisation has done across the State, which has set the stage for the launch. There is a possibility he could travel abroad again in the next few months for his political campaign as well,” the source added.