Looking into incredible struggle of Vijay Sethupathi: From being an accountant in Dubai to earning title of ‘Makkal Selvan’

Looking into incredible struggle of Vijay Sethupathi: From being an accountant in Dubai to earning title of ‘Makkal Selvan’

Vijay Sethupathi’s remarkable journey from a Dubai accountant to ‘Makkal Selvan’ is a testament to his perseverance. Overcoming early struggles and uncredited roles, his authentic performances in films like ‘Pizza’ and ‘Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom’ earned him widespread acclaim. Now, with a diverse filmography and upcoming projects, his star continues to rise. Vijay Sethupathi is…

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The IPS officers were transferred as ordered by the Election Commission of India.  NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday ordered the transfer of 19 senior police officers in West Bengal, marking the third consecutive day of such reshuffles in the poll-bound state.The poll body replaced the ADG/IGPs of the south and north Bengal regions, the police commissioners of Howrah, Barrackpore, Chandannagar, and Asansol-Durgapur, as well as 12 superintendents of police (SPs) and a deputy commissioner (DC) across 13 districts.The first round of transfers was carried out in the state’s top bureaucracy just hours after the ECI announced the assembly election schedule on Sunday for four states, including West Bengal, and the Union territory of Puducherry.The second round of transfers took place on Monday afternoon within the senior ranks of the West Bengal Police. The ECI is empowered to transfer officers directly involved in elections under Article 324 of the Constitution. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedUnder it, the poll body has the power of “superintendence, direction, and control” over the entire poll machinery in a state or Union territory during elections.However, the transfers drew sharp criticism in Parliament from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which governs West Bengal. TMC MP Derek O’Brien announced a day-long walkout by party MPs from the Rajya Sabha to protest what he called “transfers made by the ECI in the middle of the night.” Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju, however, emphasised that the poll panel was exercising its constitutional mandate and accused the TMC of “routinely attacking constitutional bodies.”All 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal will be held in two phases – April 23 and 29 – with voting for 152 and 142 seats, respectively. The counting will be held on May 4.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common IndiansIndia Vs Pakistan Showdown At UN: Delhi Calls Out ‘Imaginary Islamophobia’ Claims, Afghan StrikesNDA Storm In Rajya Sabha Polls Bihar Clean Sweep Odisha Wins Haryana On HoldIndia Holds Off On US Trade Deal Signing As Washington Resets Global Tariff ArchitectureInternet Calls Bibi’s Cafe Video ‘Deepfake’, Israel Says PM Alive; ‘Free Palestine’ Echoes At OscarsIran Seeks Return Of 3 Tankers Seized By India In Return For Hormuz Safe Passage: Report123PhotostoriesDeadly on-camera stunt: Delhi property dealer fires gun at chest and dies7 discontinued cars enthusiasts still miss todayBeyond Mumbai: Top 5 fast-growing cities in Maharashtra for real estate in 2026Vijay Deverakonda in pink, Rashmika Mandanna in green: Throwback Haldi look of ‘Virosh’ is breaking the internetChef Sanjeev Kapoor’s 7-step guide on how to soft-boil and hard-boil eggs: 5 easy recipes for lunch and dinnerHigh blood pressure isn’t just a heart problem, it’s a kidney alarm6 intelligent animals and birds on Earth after humans and where to spot themLakshmi Vilas Palace: 8 stunning facts about the world’s largest private homeMore than diabetes, more than the neck: Where Acanthosis Nigricans can hide10 home names inspired by flowers from around the world123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

The IPS officers were transferred as ordered by the Election Commission of India. NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday ordered the transfer of 19 senior police officers in West Bengal, marking the third consecutive day of such reshuffles in the poll-bound state.The poll body replaced the ADG/IGPs of the south and north Bengal regions, the police commissioners of Howrah, Barrackpore, Chandannagar, and Asansol-Durgapur, as well as 12 superintendents of police (SPs) and a deputy commissioner (DC) across 13 districts.The first round of transfers was carried out in the state’s top bureaucracy just hours after the ECI announced the assembly election schedule on Sunday for four states, including West Bengal, and the Union territory of Puducherry.The second round of transfers took place on Monday afternoon within the senior ranks of the West Bengal Police. The ECI is empowered to transfer officers directly involved in elections under Article 324 of the Constitution. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedUnder it, the poll body has the power of “superintendence, direction, and control” over the entire poll machinery in a state or Union territory during elections.However, the transfers drew sharp criticism in Parliament from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which governs West Bengal. TMC MP Derek O’Brien announced a day-long walkout by party MPs from the Rajya Sabha to protest what he called “transfers made by the ECI in the middle of the night.” Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju, however, emphasised that the poll panel was exercising its constitutional mandate and accused the TMC of “routinely attacking constitutional bodies.”All 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal will be held in two phases – April 23 and 29 – with voting for 152 and 142 seats, respectively. The counting will be held on May 4.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common IndiansIndia Vs Pakistan Showdown At UN: Delhi Calls Out ‘Imaginary Islamophobia’ Claims, Afghan StrikesNDA Storm In Rajya Sabha Polls Bihar Clean Sweep Odisha Wins Haryana On HoldIndia Holds Off On US Trade Deal Signing As Washington Resets Global Tariff ArchitectureInternet Calls Bibi’s Cafe Video ‘Deepfake’, Israel Says PM Alive; ‘Free Palestine’ Echoes At OscarsIran Seeks Return Of 3 Tankers Seized By India In Return For Hormuz Safe Passage: Report123PhotostoriesDeadly on-camera stunt: Delhi property dealer fires gun at chest and dies7 discontinued cars enthusiasts still miss todayBeyond Mumbai: Top 5 fast-growing cities in Maharashtra for real estate in 2026Vijay Deverakonda in pink, Rashmika Mandanna in green: Throwback Haldi look of ‘Virosh’ is breaking the internetChef Sanjeev Kapoor’s 7-step guide on how to soft-boil and hard-boil eggs: 5 easy recipes for lunch and dinnerHigh blood pressure isn’t just a heart problem, it’s a kidney alarm6 intelligent animals and birds on Earth after humans and where to spot themLakshmi Vilas Palace: 8 stunning facts about the world’s largest private homeMore than diabetes, more than the neck: Where Acanthosis Nigricans can hide10 home names inspired by flowers from around the world123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

The IPS officers were transferred as ordered by the Election Commission of India. NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday ordered the transfer of 19 senior police officers in West Bengal, marking the third consecutive day of such reshuffles in the poll-bound state.The poll body replaced the ADG/IGPs of the south and…

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Mar 17, 2026, 14:31 IST

Mar 17, 2026, 14:31 IST

Abrar Ahmed and Sunil Gavaskar NEW DELHI: A fresh controversy has erupted in the cricketing world after Pakistan-born England cricketer Azeem Rafiq strongly criticised batting great Sunil Gavaskar for his remarks on Indian-owned franchises signing Pakistan players in overseas leagues.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The debate was triggered after Abrar Ahmed…

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Iran war shakes skies: Emirates jets fly back to Dubai nearly empty as travellers flee

Iran war shakes skies: Emirates jets fly back to Dubai nearly empty as travellers flee

The ongoing Middle East war has drained Dubai of much of its travel appeal. Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is operating some flights to Dubai almost empty, as travellers avoid the Persian Gulf. Flights from the US and continental Europe have been hit hardest, with occupancy on several routes dropping sharply, as thecarrier faces…

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BU Jhansi result 2026 released at bujhansi.co.in: Direct link to download scorecards here

BU Jhansi result 2026 released at bujhansi.co.in: Direct link to download scorecards here

BU Jhansi result 2026: Bundelkhand University (BU), Jhansi, has declared the odd semester results for several undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The results have been uploaded on the official website, bujhansi.co.in. Students who appeared in the examinations can check and download their results by visiting bujhansi.ac.in and entering their registration or roll number. According to the…

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What? Woman catches her cop husband cheating – offers to “rent” him to his mistress for INR 85,000 a month |

What? Woman catches her cop husband cheating – offers to “rent” him to his mistress for INR 85,000 a month |

Picture this: Your husband, a respected police officer, goes to a mistress’ apartment. Instead of filing for divorce, you propose… renting him out to the mistress! That’s the wild twist in Khun Kwang’s story, a 31-year-old Thai mom who went viral on the TV show Hone-Krasae, hosted by Kanchai Kamnerdloy. Married since 21 (straight out…

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‘Unconstitutional’: SC rules adoptive mothers can’t be denied maternity leave if child is older than 3 months

‘Unconstitutional’: SC rules adoptive mothers can’t be denied maternity leave if child is older than 3 months

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled that there is “no rationality” in a provision of the Social Security Code 2020, calling it “contentious.” The provision limits maternity leave for adoptive mothers to those who adopt children under three months of age.The top court has declared Section 60(4) of the Code on Social Security,…

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Saudi Arabia: Saudi News: 13,500-year-old settlement found in Nefud Desert, 190km trade links stun archaeologists | World News

Saudi Arabia: Saudi News: 13,500-year-old settlement found in Nefud Desert, 190km trade links stun archaeologists | World News

Ancient settlement dating back 13,500 years found, advanced tools and trade networks unearthed / Image: file Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) announced a groundbreaking archaeological find that pushes back the timeline of human history in the Arabian Peninsula. Deep in the rugged landscapes of AlUla, researchers uncovered evidence of a human settlement dating…

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Rajnikanth (File photo) NEW DELHI: Movie star Rajnikanth on Tuseday expressed “gratitude to everyone” who condemned a TVK leader’s “slanderous remarks” claiming that the actor didn’t join politics as the ruling DMK family “threatened” him when he tried to enter politics.Thanking the film fraternity, his friends and fans, the actor said: “Time doesn’t speak, but it waits and gives the answer”. “I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who condemned his slanderous remarks and raised their voices in support of me: the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, Edappadi Palaniswami; Tamil Nadu BJP President Nainar Nagendran; Union Minister L. Murugan; Tamil Nadu Minister Raghupathy; Thol. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedThirumavalavan; S.P. Velumani; my friend Annamalai; Arjunamurthy; Anbumani Ramadoss; G.K. Vasan. John Pandian; Pugazhendhi; and various other political leaders from different parties,” Rajnikanth posted on X. He further said: “I also extend my sincere thanks to Ameer, G. Dhananjayan, and my friends from the film fraternity; to Nakkeeran Gopal, Rangaraj Pandey (Chanakyaa), and members of the media; and, above all, to my fans—whom I revere as deities—for sustaining and uplifting me. Time doesn’t speak, but it waits and gives the answer.”What was the remark?TVK functionary Aadhav Arjuna had alleged that the DMK family threatened actor Rajinikanth when he tried to enter politics. Arjuna said he was not criticising Rajinikanth but added that Vijay had the courage to withstand such pressure.TVK organised protests at district headquarters across Tamil Nadu on Thursday, accusing the state government of failing to maintain law and order. A protest was held in Chennai, in which TVK functionaries N Anand, Aadhav Arjuna and Arun Raj participated.Speaking at the protest, Arjuna said after MGR, Rajinikanth was one of the most popular actors who intended to enter politics. He said Rajinikanth wanted to enter Tamil Nadu politics and change the system. “However, the DMK family issued several threats to Rajinikanth and prevented him from entering politics. See what happened now… At the end, he went on to act in a film produced by Red Giant,” he said.Arjuna added that there was no criticism of Rajinikanth personally. However, he said Vijay had the mental strength to enter politics despite such threats. “Even when personal criticism was directed at Vijay, he did not remain silent at home in fear.”Remark draws criticism from all quartersArjuna’s remarks drew criticism from several quarters, particularly from Rajinikanth’s fans. “Rajinikanth is not someone who fears threats — everyone knows that. At a time when the coronavirus was spreading severely, he stepped away from politics considering the infection risk that gatherings could pose to the public and to avoid loss of lives due to the virus,” said S Ravi, one of his fan club members in Sholingur. “Not everyone who gathers crowds can become a leader,” he added.AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palansiwami and BJP Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagenthran on Monday condemned remarks by TVK general secretary Aadhav Arjuna that actor Rajinikanth dropped his plans to launch political party due to threat from DMK. BJP has demanded an apology from Aadhav Arjuna.”Superstar Rajinikanth commands immense respect across spectrum for his abilities and talent.A TVK party functionary’s attack on such a personality is unacceptable,” EPS said in an X post. “Entering politics is one’s right, as is staying out.He (Rajinikanth) cited valid reasons for staying out. Respect that choice; politicising it is political incivility,” EPS said. EPS added that the actor earned MGR’s love and J Jayalalithaa’s respect. The statement comes four days after Aadhav made the remark that unlike Rajinikanth, Vijay withstood pressure and launched a party.In a post on X, Nagenthran said Rajinikanth, who completed more than five decades in cinema, is respected across political and social spheres and enjoys the affection of people cutting across caste, religion and language. “It is unacceptable for Mr Aadhav Arjuna to speak wrongly about such a dignified personality in public,” he said.Nagenthran recollected that Rajinikanth had received honours including Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. He said the actor also enjoyed respect of national leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Nagenthran urged TVK president Vijay to intervene. “The leader of that party should condemn such remarks and advise him not to engage in such actions,” he said. Last week, Aadhav Arjuna alleged that actor Rajinikanth faced pressure from DMK when he attempted to enter politics and suggested that such intimidation discouraged him from pursuing a political career.He said unlike Rajinikanth, TVK president Vijay showed the resolve to withstand such pressure. The remarks drew reactions from political leaders and sections of Rajinikanth’s supporters. His fan clubs in Madurai announced that they will contest against Aadhav in the 2026 polls to defeat him and show Rajini’s strength.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common IndiansIndia Vs Pakistan Showdown At UN: Delhi Calls Out ‘Imaginary Islamophobia’ Claims, Afghan StrikesNDA Storm In Rajya Sabha Polls Bihar Clean Sweep Odisha Wins Haryana On HoldIndia Holds Off On US Trade Deal Signing As Washington Resets Global Tariff ArchitectureInternet Calls Bibi’s Cafe Video ‘Deepfake’, Israel Says PM Alive; ‘Free Palestine’ Echoes At OscarsIran Seeks Return Of 3 Tankers Seized By India In Return For Hormuz Safe Passage: Report123Photostories7 discontinued cars enthusiasts still miss todayBeyond Mumbai: Top 5 fast-growing cities in Maharashtra for real estate in 2026Vijay Deverakonda in pink, Rashmika Mandanna in green: Throwback Haldi look of ‘Virosh’ is breaking the internetChef Sanjeev Kapoor’s 7-step guide on how to soft-boil and hard-boil eggs: 5 easy recipes for lunch and dinnerHigh blood pressure isn’t just a heart problem, it’s a kidney alarm6 intelligent animals and birds on Earth after humans and where to spot themLakshmi Vilas Palace: 8 stunning facts about the world’s largest private homeMore than diabetes, more than the neck: Where Acanthosis Nigricans can hide10 home names inspired by flowers from around the worldBaby names for girls born during Navratri123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

Rajnikanth (File photo) NEW DELHI: Movie star Rajnikanth on Tuseday expressed “gratitude to everyone” who condemned a TVK leader’s “slanderous remarks” claiming that the actor didn’t join politics as the ruling DMK family “threatened” him when he tried to enter politics.Thanking the film fraternity, his friends and fans, the actor said: “Time doesn’t speak, but it waits and gives the answer”. “I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who condemned his slanderous remarks and raised their voices in support of me: the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, Edappadi Palaniswami; Tamil Nadu BJP President Nainar Nagendran; Union Minister L. Murugan; Tamil Nadu Minister Raghupathy; Thol. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedThirumavalavan; S.P. Velumani; my friend Annamalai; Arjunamurthy; Anbumani Ramadoss; G.K. Vasan. John Pandian; Pugazhendhi; and various other political leaders from different parties,” Rajnikanth posted on X. He further said: “I also extend my sincere thanks to Ameer, G. Dhananjayan, and my friends from the film fraternity; to Nakkeeran Gopal, Rangaraj Pandey (Chanakyaa), and members of the media; and, above all, to my fans—whom I revere as deities—for sustaining and uplifting me. Time doesn’t speak, but it waits and gives the answer.”What was the remark?TVK functionary Aadhav Arjuna had alleged that the DMK family threatened actor Rajinikanth when he tried to enter politics. Arjuna said he was not criticising Rajinikanth but added that Vijay had the courage to withstand such pressure.TVK organised protests at district headquarters across Tamil Nadu on Thursday, accusing the state government of failing to maintain law and order. A protest was held in Chennai, in which TVK functionaries N Anand, Aadhav Arjuna and Arun Raj participated.Speaking at the protest, Arjuna said after MGR, Rajinikanth was one of the most popular actors who intended to enter politics. He said Rajinikanth wanted to enter Tamil Nadu politics and change the system. “However, the DMK family issued several threats to Rajinikanth and prevented him from entering politics. See what happened now… At the end, he went on to act in a film produced by Red Giant,” he said.Arjuna added that there was no criticism of Rajinikanth personally. However, he said Vijay had the mental strength to enter politics despite such threats. “Even when personal criticism was directed at Vijay, he did not remain silent at home in fear.”Remark draws criticism from all quartersArjuna’s remarks drew criticism from several quarters, particularly from Rajinikanth’s fans. “Rajinikanth is not someone who fears threats — everyone knows that. At a time when the coronavirus was spreading severely, he stepped away from politics considering the infection risk that gatherings could pose to the public and to avoid loss of lives due to the virus,” said S Ravi, one of his fan club members in Sholingur. “Not everyone who gathers crowds can become a leader,” he added.AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palansiwami and BJP Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagenthran on Monday condemned remarks by TVK general secretary Aadhav Arjuna that actor Rajinikanth dropped his plans to launch political party due to threat from DMK. BJP has demanded an apology from Aadhav Arjuna.”Superstar Rajinikanth commands immense respect across spectrum for his abilities and talent.A TVK party functionary’s attack on such a personality is unacceptable,” EPS said in an X post. “Entering politics is one’s right, as is staying out.He (Rajinikanth) cited valid reasons for staying out. Respect that choice; politicising it is political incivility,” EPS said. EPS added that the actor earned MGR’s love and J Jayalalithaa’s respect. The statement comes four days after Aadhav made the remark that unlike Rajinikanth, Vijay withstood pressure and launched a party.In a post on X, Nagenthran said Rajinikanth, who completed more than five decades in cinema, is respected across political and social spheres and enjoys the affection of people cutting across caste, religion and language. “It is unacceptable for Mr Aadhav Arjuna to speak wrongly about such a dignified personality in public,” he said.Nagenthran recollected that Rajinikanth had received honours including Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. He said the actor also enjoyed respect of national leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Nagenthran urged TVK president Vijay to intervene. “The leader of that party should condemn such remarks and advise him not to engage in such actions,” he said. Last week, Aadhav Arjuna alleged that actor Rajinikanth faced pressure from DMK when he attempted to enter politics and suggested that such intimidation discouraged him from pursuing a political career.He said unlike Rajinikanth, TVK president Vijay showed the resolve to withstand such pressure. The remarks drew reactions from political leaders and sections of Rajinikanth’s supporters. His fan clubs in Madurai announced that they will contest against Aadhav in the 2026 polls to defeat him and show Rajini’s strength.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common IndiansIndia Vs Pakistan Showdown At UN: Delhi Calls Out ‘Imaginary Islamophobia’ Claims, Afghan StrikesNDA Storm In Rajya Sabha Polls Bihar Clean Sweep Odisha Wins Haryana On HoldIndia Holds Off On US Trade Deal Signing As Washington Resets Global Tariff ArchitectureInternet Calls Bibi’s Cafe Video ‘Deepfake’, Israel Says PM Alive; ‘Free Palestine’ Echoes At OscarsIran Seeks Return Of 3 Tankers Seized By India In Return For Hormuz Safe Passage: Report123Photostories7 discontinued cars enthusiasts still miss todayBeyond Mumbai: Top 5 fast-growing cities in Maharashtra for real estate in 2026Vijay Deverakonda in pink, Rashmika Mandanna in green: Throwback Haldi look of ‘Virosh’ is breaking the internetChef Sanjeev Kapoor’s 7-step guide on how to soft-boil and hard-boil eggs: 5 easy recipes for lunch and dinnerHigh blood pressure isn’t just a heart problem, it’s a kidney alarm6 intelligent animals and birds on Earth after humans and where to spot themLakshmi Vilas Palace: 8 stunning facts about the world’s largest private homeMore than diabetes, more than the neck: Where Acanthosis Nigricans can hide10 home names inspired by flowers from around the worldBaby names for girls born during Navratri123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

NEW DELHI: Movie star Rajnikanth on Tuseday expressed “gratitude to everyone” who condemned a TVK leader’s “slanderous remarks” claiming that the actor didn’t join politics as the ruling DMK family “threatened” him when he tried to enter politics.Thanking the film fraternity, his friends and fans, the actor said: “Time doesn’t speak, but it waits and…

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Mar 17, 2026, 13:44 IST

Mar 17, 2026, 13:44 IST

Suryakumar Yadav, right, holds the T20 World Cup trophy as he celebrates with his wife Devisha (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: India’s T20 World Cup-winning captain Suryakumar Yadav has revealed how a simple yet “brutally honest” question from his wife Devisha in 2018 became the turning point of his career, pushing him to chase his long-held…

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5 IPL legends to have not won the Orange Cap

5 IPL legends to have not won the Orange Cap

Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-getters in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament. IPL Trophy. (BCCI/IPL Photo) Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-getters in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions…

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Short covering, bottom fishing lift sensex 939 pts

Short covering, bottom fishing lift sensex 939 pts

MUMBAI: Short covering, especially during the closing hours of Monday’s session, led to a smart reversal in sensex, which closed 939 points up at 75,503 points. The development came despite strong selling by foreign funds that offloaded shares worth Rs 9,366 crore, the second-highest singlesession net outflow figure so far this year.After days of sharp…

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Jordin Sparks defends ‘American Idol’ prizes after Kelly Clarkson’s claim: ‘I got my car’

Jordin Sparks defends ‘American Idol’ prizes after Kelly Clarkson’s claim: ‘I got my car’

Jordin Sparks, the shining star from ‘American Idol’ Season 6, has set the record straight about her sweet ride. In light of Kelly Clarkson’s recent statement regarding her own prize, Sparks confirmed she indeed got the Ford promised to her, clearing up the confusion. ‘American Idol’ Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks is clearing up the…

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