Exercise caution in matters of religion: Rajinikanth on Sabarimala

While Rajini said that caution is needed when interfering with religion and rituals, Kamal said that he doesn’t know the emotions behind the Sabarimala issue.
Exercise caution in matters of religion: Rajinikanth on Sabarimala
Exercise caution in matters of religion: Rajinikanth on Sabarimala
Written by:

Even as Sabarimala continues to remain tense over the issue of women’s entry, actor-politician Rajinikanth on Saturday made his first comments since the Supreme Court’s verdict last month. Speaking to reporters at the Chennai airport on his return from the shooting of Petta, Rajinikanth said we should respect the unique religious traditions of each temple.  

"There is no contradictory opinion on women having equal rights. But when it comes to temple, each will have its own set of beliefs and traditions that have been followed over the years. It is my humble opinion that nobody should interfere in those," he said. A journalist then asked whether this means the SC judgment must be ignored, to which he said, "I am not saying that we must not ignore it, but in issues concerning religion and rituals, caution must be exercised."

Rajinikanth also responded to other issues occupying the news space including the ‘Me Too’ movement. “Me Too movement supports women. But it must not be misused. They must use it in the correct way,” he said. When asked about the allegations of sexual harassment against poet and lyricist Vairamuthu, Rajinikanth said he has denied the accusations. Rajinikanth said, "Vairamuthu has denied them, saying such an incident has never occurred and that he has proof of the same. He has also said women can file cases."

Several women have alleged that Vairamuthu sexually harassed them. The allegations initiated by singer Chinmayi gradually saw many other women coming out and speaking openly about the sexual harassment they faced from him.

Explicitly asked if Rajinikanth was a supporter of the movement, the star said, "It's definitely good for women. It should be used properly."

Denying rumours that an announcement about his political party will be made on his birthday December 12, Rajinikanth said that though 90% of the work for the party is complete, there will not be an announcement on his birthday.

“I will announce about the party at the auspicious time,” he said.

Amidst growing criticism on Rajinikanth and Kamal Hasan that they were yet to be 'full time politicians', Rajini had tweeted on Friday that the shooting for the upcoming Karthik Subburaj film Petta had been wrapped.  

Meanwhile, actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam Chief Kamal Haasan refused to be drawn into the polarising Sabarimala issue, stating, “I have not been to Sabarimala, so to ask my opinion isn't right. I am for anything that is good for the state and for women. I don't understand the emotions behind it (Sabarimala), so it's better I don't get into it."

Kamal also denied talks with the Congress for the elections, saying it was too early. 

Related Stories

No stories found.
The News Minute
www.thenewsminute.com