​Superstar Rajinikanth issued a statement on Tuesday, addressing the recent wave of political commentary surrounding his 2020 decision to exit the political arena.

The legendary actor expressed deep gratitude to the cross-section of leaders and fans who stood by him following what he described as “untruthful” comments made by TVK General Secretary Aadhav Arjuna.

The tension began last week during a TVK protest when Arjuna claimed that Rajinikanth’s withdrawal from politics was fuelled by “pressure and threats” from the DMK leadership, contrasting this with TVK chief Vijay’s “unwavering courage.”

This sparked a massive debate across Tamil Nadu’s political and cinematic circles, prompting a rare and pointed response from the actor.

​The Superstar’s statement served as both a rebuttal and a heartfelt “thank you” to an unexpectedly diverse group of defenders.

Rajinikanth specifically named several high-profile figures who publicly condemned Arjuna’s narrative, including LoP Edappadi K. Palaniswami, TN BJP President Nainar Nagendran, Union Minister L. Murugan, Minister Raghupathi, BJP leader Annamalai and VCK chief Thol. Thirumavalavan.

He also acknowledged industry voices like Director Ameer and Producer G. Dhananjayan, as well as veteran journalists such as Nakkheeran Gopal and Rangaraj Pandey. In his letter, the actor noted, “I express my heartfelt thanks to the political leaders, film industry friends, and media personalities who spoke the truth when my character was being questioned.”

​Rajinikanth saved his most emotional words for his massive fanbase, whom he famously refers to as the “deities who sustain me” (Ennai Vaazhavaikum Deivangal), praising their restraint and loyalty in the face of provocation.

True to his signature style, he signed off with “Time does not speak, but it waits and delivers the answer.”

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