Ajith Dared To Speak In Front Of Karunanidhi Despite Knowing Consequences: AIADMK Recalls Thala's Bold Speech

AIADMK leader Jayakumar found a new way to hail Tamil actor Ajith Kumar on his 53rd birthday as he recalled the Kollywood star's daring speech in front of late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi.

"I am wishing him a happy birthday. I have a special place for him for his courageous nature," the AIADMK leader claimed. Then he accused the DMK family of controlling the film industry and tried to explain how the the ruling party had control over the film industry.

"If a film isn't handed to their production house, they're known to stir up trouble. Red Giant looms large, devouring smaller entities like a whale among fishes. We all know how Vishal is struggling," Jayakumar said.

"It was at M Karunanidhi's felicitation ceremony that Ajith dared to speak about how the actors were forced to attend such political events. He opened up despite knowing the consequences. He had said that people should come wholeheartedly to attend such events rather than forcing them to come. This attitude of the actor I like the most," Jayakumar added.

What is the incident all about?

Wayback in February 2010, Ajith Kumar stirred controversy by speaking out against certain practices in Kollywood. He spoke out against the pressure on stars to attend events organized by a few individuals or face consequences such as lack of cooperation for their films.

During a felicitation event honouring late M Karunanidhi for his contribution to the film industry, Ajith, in the presence of the Chief Minister at the time, expressed his frustration. He highlighted the dilemma faced by actors who are expected to participate in political and social events but are discouraged from entering politics. He called for a directive to ensure that film personalities are not coerced into attending such events.

Ajith's comments received a standing ovation from Rajinikanth, while others seemed unsure how to react. Although some industry members criticized Ajith, Rajini supported him, even meeting with M Karunanidhi to resolve the controversy stirred by Ajith's remarks.

Later, Ajith personally visited M Karunanidhi's residence to further explain his perspective on the matter.

"I have stuck my neck out, but it is my strong belief that it is not politicians or those in the business of governance who are creating trouble. They have more serious issues to handle and have no time to indulge in petty matters. But there is a group that wants a star to participate (in all such events) and if he does not comply and prefers that the government handle it, then the star's nativity and loyalty are questioned," The Times of India quoted the actor as saying.