New Delhi: Congress leader Udit Raj on Tuesday claimed that Rajinikanth touched Yogi Adityanath's feet because the actor saw UP Chief Minister as the likely successor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, news agency ANI reported.
The remark comes a day after Rajinikanth clarified that he touched Yogi's feet as it was his habit to fall at the feet of a 'sanyasi' or 'yogi', irrespective of the age of that person.
Speaking to ANI, the Congress leader said, "Debates are happening on CM Yogi Adityanath being seen as Prime Minister in the future. Otherwise, this courtesy was not shown by actor Rajinikanth for Prime Minister Modi."
"He is having a glimpse of the future Prime Minister in CM Yogi Adityanath. Such talks are making rounds," he added.
On Monday, Rajnikanth responded to the criticism on social media platforms, saying "It is my habit to touch the feet of Yogis or Sanyasis and take their blessings, even if they are younger to me, I have done that only."
During their meeting last week, Rajinikanth greeted UP CM Yogi Adityanath with a namaste and then touched his feet. This gesture was criticised widely on social media, with many asking if it was okay for the 72-year-old actor to touch the feet of the much younger UP CM, reported PTI.
While speaking to the reporters, the film star also thanked the people for making his latest movie 'Jailer' a "grand success".
When asked about the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he said he did not want to talk about politics.