Prakash Raj's veiled dig at Vijay's political entry: Can't give actors the country
Actor Prakash Raj criticised actors entering politics, terming it a 'cinema model', in what appeared to be a veiled dig at his Jana Nayagan co-star and TVK chief Vijay. Raj urged voters to choose between the Dravidian, slave, or cinema models ahead of the Tamil Nadu elections.
Vijay's Jana Nayagan co-actor Prakash Raj seems to have taken a dig at Thalapathy's entry into politics. In a remark that comes even as Vijay continues to actively campaign ahead of his political debut with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), in the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections, Prakash Raj took a swipe at what he termed as the “cinema model” of politics.
PRAKASH RAJ TARGETS VIJAY's POLITICS
Speaking at a campaign event for CPI(M) candidate N Pandi in Palani, Prakash Raj outlined what he described as three prevailing political approaches in the state – the Dravidian model, the “slave model”, and the “cinema model”.
Addressing the gathering, the actor questioned the growing trend of film stars transitioning into politics, in an apparent reference to Vijay. He said that while actors can convincingly portray a range of roles on screen, real-life political engagement demands a different kind of accountability and commitment.
"In a film, you can be a doctor, or an engineer or even a Chief Minister. But, in politics, how can you become a CM straight away? Have you spoken about politics like me? Have you stood for the people and Tamil Nadu when they were facing issues or stood up for the language or its self-respect? The love that people have for you is for your talent and not for your politics. You can use the same love for your politics," he said.
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POLITICS AND CINEMA ARE DIFFERENT: PRAKASH RAJ
The 61-year-old said politics demands direct engagement with people on the ground. Citing actor-politician Seeman as an example, he noted that he has been consistently active in politics for over a decade, unlike many actors who step in without sustained involvement. He questioned voters on what kind of governance they prefer – the Dravidian model, a “slave model”, or a “cinema model”.
Prakash Raj added that politics should be driven by the people, with elected representatives focusing on hard, on-ground work. Instead, he argued, the current system often sees those in power doing politics while ordinary citizens are left to carry the burden of real work.
He said, "People stood in queues in the heat, put up cut-outs, bought tickets, and ignored their homes and work to show you love, and now you are using that for your political entry? Look, if I like an actor, I can whistle until my throat goes hoarse. But I cannot give them the country. Politics is different; cinema is different. That love is different; this responsibility is different. One must get on the ground and speak."
PRAKASH RAJ AND VIJAY’S PROFESSIONAL COLLABORATIONS
Despite the political divergence, Prakash Raj and Vijay share a long professional association, having worked together in films such as Ghilli, Sivakasi, Villu and Aathi. They were last seen together in Varisu. Prakash Raj has, in the past, referred to Vijay as “chellam” (dear), and had extended his wishes when the latter announced his political plans in 2024.
The two actors are also set to share screen space in the upcoming film Jana Nayagan, which has faced delays but continues to generate interest among fans.