Rajinikanth 'Extremely Shocked' On Vijay Becoming Tamil Nadu's CM, Calls Friendship With MK Stalin 'Beyond Politics'

Rajinikanth reacts to Vijay becoming Tamil Nadu CM, says he was “extremely shocked” and clarifies his meeting with MK Stalin amid political criticism.

Rajinikanth addresses media in Chennai, reacting to Vijay’s rise as Tamil Nadu CM.

Source : PTI

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Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom

• Rajinikanth expressed shock at Vijay becoming Chief Minister.
• He clarified his meeting with MK Stalin was personal.
• The actor reiterated his firm distance from active politics.
• Rajinikanth addressed criticisms regarding his political neutrality.

In a candid interaction, veteran actor Rajinikanth addressed mounting speculation around his political stance. He offered clarity on both his recent meeting with M. K. Stalin and the unexpected rise of Vijay as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Speaking from his residence in Chennai, the actor struck a measured tone, balancing surprise with restraint as he distanced himself from active politics.

‘Extremely Shocked’: Rajinikanth Reacts To Vijay’s Rise

Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Actor Rajinikanth says, "I was extremely shocked when I heard that Vijay had become the Chief Minister. I am not in politics; it has been many days since I stepped away from politics. There is a 28-year age difference between Vijay and me. Here, Vijay has… https://t.co/WUxYS8YUbK pic.twitter.com/dcr0lcGfiA

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2026

Breaking his silence on the political developments, ajinikanth admitted the news of Vijay assuming the top post caught him off guard.

"I was extremely shocked when I heard that Vijay had become the Chief Minister. I am not in politics; it has been many days since I stepped away from politics. There is a 28-year age difference between Vijay and me. Here, Vijay has independently earned recognition by standing against the two major parties, " Rajinikanth said.

His remarks reflect both surprise and acknowledgement of Vijay’s independent political journey.

Why Rajinikanth Felt The Need To Speak Now

The actor made it clear that his decision to address the media wasn’t spontaneous. Growing criticism, particularly around his political neutrality and public appearances, prompted him to respond before speculation hardened into accepted narrative.

“I am holding this press meet because many criticisms are being made about me in connection with the election. If I do not respond, they will become accepted as the truth," the veteran actor said.

Meeting With MK Stalin: ‘Beyond Politics’

Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Actor Rajinikanth holds a press conference at his residence in Poes Garden.

He says, "I am holding this press meet because many criticisms are being made about me in connection with the election. If I do not respond to them, they will become accepted as the… pic.twitter.com/5gwzbKt13u

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2026

Rajinikanth also tackled questions surrounding his post-election meeting with MK Stalin, which had drawn considerable attention.

“After the election results, I met MK Stalin, and that became a subject of criticism. Our friendship is beyond politics. I felt saddened that MK Stalin was defeated in Kulathur," he said.

By framing the meeting as a personal interaction rather than a political signal, Rajinikanth sought to separate long-standing relationships from electoral interpretations.

A Firm Distance From Active Politics

Reiterating a stance he has maintained for years, Rajinikanth underscored that he is no longer part of the political arena.

“I am not in politics anymore. It has been a long time since I stepped away from politics," he said.

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