Amidst the feverish pitch for Superstar Rajinikanth to join politics, the actor today kicked off his six-day long fan meet at the Raghavendra Kalyana Mandapam in Kodambakkam in Chennai. In a strong hint on his political entry, the mega star promised that he will announce his decision on December 31.

In a short but focused speech, amidst rousing applause and cheers from the fans who were gathered, Rajinikanth said, “There is much speculation on whether I will join politics. I shall announce my decision on 31st December.”

The actor, who has been giving out hints about his political entry for several months now, said that he is hesitant about taking the plunge because he has already had some experience with politics in the past. “I am not new to politics. I know what are the losses one incurs in politics, that is why I am reluctant,” he said.

“We need both prudence and strategy to enter politics,” he said.

Fans gathered were also witness to his steely resolve about winning in the political arena, he made it clear that there is no point taking the plunge if he does not win. “If you step into the battlefield, you have to win,” he said, evoking a loud applause from the audience.

He ended his speech by stating, “Thank you, we will begin our work.”

Rajinikanth was flanked by directors Mahendran and Kalaignanam. Speaking before Rajinikanth, director Mahendran said, "We can never know what Rajini is thinking or what he is planning to do."

At a time when several film stars, including Kamal Haasan and Vishal, have declared their intention to enter the political arena, the entry of Rajinikanth is being closely watched and awaited by his several lakh fans in the state.