“I do not subscribe to the idea of actors Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Pawan Kalyan and Upendra launching political outfits just because they are actors though I am a fan of all these stars,” national award-winning actor Prakash Raj said on Sunday.
He said actors should not enter politics only because they are popular. “It is a disaster. They should come up with a clear focus on issues facing the country and win the trust of the people. And we should not vote as fans. But as responsible citizens,” he said at the media interaction organised by the Press Club of Bengaluru and Bengaluru Reporters’ Guild.
“I won’t vote for them just because they are actors. When an actor ventures into politics, I want to know, what is his manifesto, how would he understand problems being faced by people like me. If I am convinced, my vote will go in favour of him and his party. I don’t endorse them and their party just because I am disillusioned with other political parties,” the multilingual actor said.
Trolled for comments
His comment came in the backdrop of being trolled in social media and called a sympathiser of Left-wing politics in the country after he commented on the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the murder of social activist Gauri Lankesh. “My comments stemmed out of sheer concern. I don’t speak to please somebody,” he clarified.
He also refuted rumours of his imminent entry into politics. “The question of distancing from the film world, with which I am associated with for nearly three decades, does not arise. At present, I am enjoying what I am doing, including, acting, writing and farming.”
On the protests against Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmavati , the actor suggested that those opposing the film abide by the verdict of the Central Board of Film Certification. “Instead of objecting to the film after watching it, many are jumping to a conclusion even before that.”
When his reaction was sought on actors, including him and Tamil star Vijay, being attacked for questioning the rationale behind the GST, Mr. Prakash pleaded not to bring both on the same line.
‘Brands jittery’
When asked if brands that he has endorsed are jittery over his recent comments, actor Prakash Raj replied in the affirmative.
“There are attempts to remove me from brands I represent for having raised the issue of growing intolerance in the country and the GST,” he said. “But I will not be cowed down by such kind of pressure tactics.”
He said the situation was similar to what Bollywood actors Shahrukh Khan and Aamir Khan had faced when they had voiced their concern about intolerance in the country.
