Actor Rajinikanth on Saturday said that 90% of the work relating to the Rajini Makkal Mandram was over, and that he would launch his political party very soon.
He, however, said the party would not be launched, as expected, on December 12.
“Ninety percent of the work is finished. I won’t be announcing the party on December 12 but I will announce it at an appropriate time,” said Mr. Rajinikanth at the Chennai airport upon returning from the shooting of Petta directed by Karthik Subbaraj.
Commenting on the Sabarimala issue, Mr. Rajinikanth said, “There is no disagreement that women should be treated as equals [to men]. However, every temple has its own traditions and rituals. In these issues, nobody should interfere.” He further added: “Supreme Court’s verdict has to be respected but due consideration should be given to religious traditions.”
When asked about the #metoo movement, Mr. Rajinikanth said: “It is a good movement for women. But it shouldn’t be misused.”
No comment: Kamal
Speaking to mediapersons on Saturday, actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam president Kamal Haasan said it wouldn’t be right for him to comment on the Sabarimala issue.
“I do not understand the stand of the devotees and have never visited the temple. So it wouldn’t be proper for me to comment on the issue,” he said.
The actor added that he could only comment from the point of view of what was good for women or for the country.
Mr. Haasan said it was too early to discuss any alliances ahead of the upcoming elections and that members of his party were trying to reach out to people and understand the issues faced by them.