People miffed at Rajini’s pic on aid items

Cyclone Gaja left around 30 people dead according to sources and many without homes in the southern districts. Rajinikanth took to Twitter to share his thoughts. He said, “My condolences to those who have been affected by Cyclone Gaja. I commend the members of Rajini Makkal Mandram who have been engaged in relief efforts in affected areas. Let us continue our efforts.” 

Rajini Makkal Mandram and the actor have however been criticised as seeking publicity from the tragedy. The food packets and aid material that has been distributed by the Rajini Makkal Mandram was found to have Rajinikanth’s likeness stamped on it. The pictures were shared widely on social media as users commented on the outfit trying to cash in on the natural calamity. 

The aid items in question were supposedly distributed in Nagapattinam, one of the districts affected the most. 

The move is reminiscent of the antics of the AIADMK, which distributed relief items during the Chennai floods with Jayalalithaa’s picture on the items and banners on the trucks. The ruling party was also derided heavily for their actions. 

The latest criticism comes on the back of several controversies Rajinikanth has found himself in since announcing his intention to enter politics. The actor has found himself in soup during the anti-Sterlite protests and has also been questioned on his possible tacit support to the BJP. While no concrete information is forthcoming from his end on the time of his entry into politics, Rajinikanth’s brother Sathyanarayana has over the past month stated that more information on the matter will be provided in December by way of an important announcement.