Ceremony or cyclone? TN CM Palaniswami attends wedding while Chennai recovers from Nivar

Cyclone Nivar was one of the dreaded unwelcome guests of Tamil Nadu as it made landfall near Puducherry and Chennai on November 26. But the chief minister of the state decided to remain the chief guest of a wedding ceremony in Salem.

According to media reports, 1086 trees were uprooted in Tamil Nadu, with one tree killing a man in Chennai’s Triplicane while he was returning home after enjoying a hot cup of tea at a shop nearby.

58 locations in Chennai alone were witness to heavy waterlogging on Thursday. Anna Nagar continues to remain inundated. 3 people lost their lives. Palaniswami feasted at the wedding ceremony of his friend’s son, content with the fact that he visited the battered district of Cuddalore.

While NDRF teams on ground set out for rescue efforts after cyclonic alarm bells began to ring, it seems as though the CM and his coterie of ministers were drawn to the sound of wedding bells instead.

Nivar means light in the Parsi language and it's only apt that I throw some light on EPS’ priorities.

Goodluck, Chennai, as you limp back to normalcy!

At 45, I get to play a 19-year-old: Tamil actor Suriya on Soorarai Pottru

After choosing movies like NGK and Kaappaan, Tamil actor Suriya’s refreshing, aggressive look in the trailer of Soorarai Pottru took fans to the times of Nanda and Kaakha Kaakha. “Well, this movie, however, took me back to the 90s, when I was struggling to find myself while trying to gain a foothold in the right career,” said the actor, adding that the first Rs 100 earned makes one realise the value of money and time. The challenging phase of his life seemed to resonate with the underlying theme of the movie, based on the life of Captain Gopinath – the man who redefined the aviation industry.

Why Gopinath? Director Sudha Kongara’s idea appealed to Suriya simply because Gopinath’s life “seems to be full of challenges”. “He didn’t settle for one thing. He tried agriculture, then went on to try his hand at irrigation, before exploring sericulture. He tried being the owner of an Udupi Hotel too. He later became interested in politics, helicopters, aircraft. He was just on a high throughout his life,” said the actor, terming Gopinath the king of many traits.

Captain Gopinath is the son of a school teacher, who later became an airline owner. He made 30 lakh people fly for Re 1. “He makes one realise no dream is too big that it’s impossible to achieve,” said Suriya, stressing on the fact that Gopinath transcended both cost and caste barriers with his ideology.

This film captures that ideology of Gopinath, highlighting four major chapters of his life. The 670-page book Simply Fly is the material used to create this film interspersed with some drama for the much-needed cinematic experience. “We have taken his ideology and energy. We have made our own characters, own backdrops. We have made other characters around him too. We have retained some drama, while narrating Gopinath’s adventure-ridden life,” added Suriya.

The actor has time and again stressed on the fact that he isn’t comfortable blending work and friends. And here, he agreed to work with Sudha, who he calls his “rakhi sister”. “We have known each other since Aayutha Ezhuthu days. She was the assistant director in Mani Ratnam’s film. We drifted apart, but we met once a year because she is my rakhi sister. After Irudhi Suttru, we got talking. Of course, we had our fights while shooting, but they were for the product (this film). After this film, our friendship has only gotten stronger,” said the Vaaranam Aayiram star.

In Vaaranam Aayiram, we have seen Suriya lose weight to play a young lad. And in Soorarai Pottru, the actor took 27 days to transform into a 19-year-old. “From day one, I kept those scene papers aside, thinking I’m not going to act this part. Sudha kept insisting that I play the role. We were shooting in Madurai and we had to finish these scenes too, which were pretty important for the film. So, I gave in to Sudha’s demands. Me being 45, I played that 19-year-old,” said Suriya, heaving a sigh of relief knowing that he was able to pull that off.

There are few films that provide hope, Soorari Pottru is one such film, believes Suriya. “While shooting this film, I saw 15 IAS officers from the Tamil Nadu cadre walk up to me at the airport to tell me how some of my films were an inspiration for them to choose their respective careers,” said the Tamil star reflecting a sense of pride.

Just like his wife Jyothika’s film Ponmagal Vandhal hitting the OTT platform, Suriya’s latest follows suit. Is that going to be the new norm, considering how fans go crazy in theatres during Diwali releases? “Nothing can give you more excitement than enjoying the film in the theatre, while hooting and whistling along with the crowd. That emotion cannot be matched. But nobody expected this to happen. We have to adapt and evolve. Digital platforms are going to change the phase of storytelling. Everybody’s safety is important with the pandemic now,” said the actor, whose film releases on Amazon Prime on November 12.

Instead of fans hitting the theatres for Diwali, Suriya said he is offering his film to every fan’s home as a Diwali gift. “There is a blessing in such critical times too. People are slowing down, valuing relationships and that positivity is needed to keep us going helping us coexist with nature. I see my children now understanding the seriousness of it and I learn from them about avoiding fireworks and much more,” said Suriya, emphasising on the fact that this (COVID era) too shall pass.

Tamil Nadu has been battling the pandemic as the state gears up for election 2021. What’s Suriya’s message on politics and actors turning politicians? “I want politicians to be strong opponents, picking up important issues. With actors getting into politics, I believe they have a larger vision. It’s a big commitment and they can’t go back. I will only wish them all the best,” said Suriya, who has no intention of entering politics.

“Acting is a huge responsibility. I’m happy I’m able to provide well for my family. At Agaram too, we want to help people achieve success in their respective fields while serving their family,” he said.

All that Suriya is worried about now is whether Gopinath would end up being happy with the way the film portrays his life.

Drug scandal and Bengaluru riots linked? Viren Khanna's father thinks so

 

Retired professor Sri Ram Khanna, father of Viren Khanna gave a long, weary sigh as he picked up the phone. He has been busy running from the lawyer’s office to Karnataka CM’s office. Other times, he is at the Bengaluru prison, trying to have a word with his son, all the while vowing to get him out. Viren was arrested in the drug scandal involving Sandalwood actors including Ragini Dwivedi. “Viren is innocent,” said Sri Ram Khanna, choking up with emotion.

 Viren Khanna was arrested in Delhi in the beginning of September and brought to Bengaluru soon after. He was accused of fleeing when the central crime branch began investigating this case. “He had earlier booked a train ticket to Delhi. Why would he book a ticket to flee?” questioned Sri Ram Khanna, as he got lost in thought, perhaps remembering Viren’s childhood in Delhi.

The retired professor stressed on the fact that his son was a law-abiding citizen, who even helped the police many times lending information about rave parties and more. The father wondered how a police informant of sorts could suddenly land in unanticipated clutches of the narcotic tale.

Viren Khanna stepped into Bengaluru as a student of RV College of Engineering, least realising he would end up in the dark shadows of the Parapanna Agrahara prison. After graduating in 2007, he worked at Accenture as a software engineer, only to quit and turn into a party planner in 2008. “I attended the first party he organised during New Year’s Eve at the Ice Bar in Taj Hotel. Every person I spoke to – from the waiter to the guests – appreciated Viren stating that he was tailor-made for this,” said the father, beaming with pride.

“He would organise two or three parties every week and there has not been even a single incident of drug use or abuse. How did he get entangled in this now? Stories seem to be surfacing with no checks in place. Truth is the only casualty,” he added.

Sri Ram Khanna flew to Bengaluru when Viren’s house was searched on September 8. The cops reportedly found a police uniform neatly stacked in one of the rooms. Reports suggested that he attempted impersonating a police officer. Dismissing the allegations, the father said the uniform was a “dummy costume” mainly used for Halloween parties and events with fancy dress themes.

The last party organised by Viren Khanna was the one he planned for Holi in March. The COVID pandemic brought a lull to his business, according to his father. Viren, however, hosted ‘drive-in theatre’ programmes before heading to Delhi, Sri Ram Khanna said.

Calling Viren Khanna a victim of police harassment, Sri Ram Khanna said that well-known people are unnecessarily targeted, while actual drug peddlers, who aren’t well-known, are still out. “Actors won’t run away, peddlers will,” he said, adding that cops unearthed this scandal post the recent Bengaluru riots in DJ Halli.

“Around 300 people were detained post the recent Bengaluru riots. Some of them were drug peddlers, who gave the name of one Ravi Shankar. When Ravi Shankar was questioned, Viren’s name cropped up. I asked my son later about this when he was in custody. Viren said he never knew who Ravi Shankar was until he met him while in custody. Viren told me that Ravi Shankar was tortured by the police to deliberately mention Viren Khanna’s name,” claimed the anguished father, acutely hoping this piece of information could help get his son back in his arms.

Recent media reports claimed that Viren Khanna’s associates allegedly bribed two police officers to source information about the investigation. The investigating officer later said that the two cops have been suspended following this revelation. “Viren is a regular taxpayer. His company follows GST protocol. He doesn’t have money stashed in his accounts. Let the cops examine every bank account and every transaction and provide proof,” Sri Ram Khanna said, challenging the men in khaki.

Sri Ram Khanna and his wife have decided to stay put in Bengaluru to fight this legally. “We are focussing on his bail application now. We also want to meet the CM and narrate our side of the story. We haven’t been successful yet. But our fight will go on,” he said, as his warm smile belied a steely resolve.

Saffron hues in poster paint political colour as Rajinikanth wishes PM Modi on birthday

 

Tamil superstar Rajinikanth once said in the film Baasha, “Na oru dharava sonna nooru dharava sonna maadhiri (If I said it once, it’s like having said it a hundred times).”

Despite Rajini Makkal Mandram’s warning to not put up posters until further orders, the clamour for Rajini’s political avatar gained momentum in Vellore and Madurai last week with posters saying, “Ippo illana epovume illa (If not now then never).”

Fans’ uproar seems to have intensified with speculation that their Thalaivar (or leader as he is fondly known) is set to float his party in November as Tamil Nadu gets into election mode next year. A new poster that Vellore woke up to, shows the superstar with PM Modi wishing him for his birthday on September 17. The message on the poster read, “Indhia vallarasukku anbu thalaivarin pirandhanaal nalvaazhthukal (Our kind leader conveys his birthday wishes to today’s emperor).”

Meanwhile, Rajinikanth took to Twitter to wish PM Modi saying, “Wishing the tough man in you more strength during these tough times. Happy birthday.”

There are many instances when PM Modi has been hailed in Rajini’s Darbar (court). In November 2018, the man spearheading spiritual politics in Tamil Nadu endorsed the Prime Minister terming him stronger than 10 persons. Rajinikanth even compared Modi-Amit Shah to Krishna, Arjun when Article 370 was abrogated in August last year.

Just when people thought Rajini, in a state drowned in Dravidian politics, is launching spiritual politics with a saffron touch, the actor-politician said in November, 2019, that attempts were being made to colour him as a BJP man, but they weren’t true.

Well, does this poster seem to revive the faded hue now?

“Why do you have to look at these posters with a heavily political tint?” questioned Jaya Sreenivasan, the man behind the poster. Calling himself an ardent fan of the star, he said, “This poster isn’t part of the Rajini Makkal Mandram. As an individual, I see my favourite idol wishing one of the important leaders PM Modi on his birthday. What is wrong in that?”

However, sources in the Rajini Makkal Mandram of Vellore said that authorities in the district aren’t taking any action against those behind these posters despite the fact that there has been a warning sent against installation of such artworks.

“This is a fan’s poster. It has said nothing that tarnishes the image of Rajinikanth or PM Modi. The poster also doesn’t have any political undertones that go against our leader. What action do we take?” asked joint secretary of the Vellore Unit R Needhi.

Let’s not forget that Rajinikanth will have to take on Dravidian parties to emerge as Tamil Nadu’s political superstar. And the superstar may have to be reminded that the BJP has been throwing its weight behind the actor.

All of us know Thalaivar’s famous dialogue from the movie Arunachalam: “Aandavan sollaraan, Arunachalam seyiyaraan (God commands, I obey).” The BJP that desires the lotus to bloom in Tamil Nadu, may want to add some punch to this dialogue: “BJP sollaraan, Rajini seyiyaraan (BJP commands, Rajini obeys).”

Superstar Rajinikanth sets the stage as Tamil Nadu goes into election mode?

 

Tamil Nadu has been fighting the coronavirus pandemic with all its might since the beginning of 2020. If people of the state thought there could be some calm as the year nears its end, well there’s more in store for 2021.

The Dravidian state will have to get into election mode and perhaps see spiritual politics make its foray. The intro scene of Tamil superstar Rajinikanth seems to have begun in Vellore with posters lining the streets calling for a change in governance and politics. His fans have already given him the title ‘Makkal Thalaivar’ following in the footsteps of former CM MG Ramachandran (MGR) being termed ‘Puratchi Thalaivar’.

It’s common knowledge that fandom is extremely intense in Tamil Nadu. Rajini apart, fans of actor Vijay too have laid the pitch for Thalapathy’s political entry, hailing him as the next MGR.

Rajini’s poster says, “Maatrathai sindhikkum makkalum, makkalai pattri sindhikkum thalaivarum ondrinainthaal, arasiyal mattram, aatchi maatram. Ippo illaina eppavume illai (If people who desire change and a leader who worries about people get together, change in governance and politics is possible. If not now, it’s never).”

“Isn’t this what people want?” said Akbar Pasha, joint secretary, Rajini Makkal Mandram, adding that this poster is more like a “wake-up call”. “It is our desire to see him as CM, but we will abide by whatever he chooses. This is not a party that chases posts,” he said.

 Is the superstar ready to deliver a blockbuster in the upcoming election? “Our thalaivar has said quite some time ago that we must be ready for the battle, and we are,” said Akbar Pasha, stressing on the fact that Rajinikanth’s ‘aanmeega arasiyal (spiritual politics)’ highlights sincerity.

However, another star delivering blockbusters in Tamil cinema is Vijay, whose fans have readied posters welcoming their hero into politics. This poster says, “Makkal Thilakathin maru uruvame, ungal varugaikaaga kaathirukkirom. Viraivil varuga. Nallaatchi tharuga (You are an incarnation of MGR. We are waiting for your political entry. Come soon and give us good governance).” 

“We are welcoming our Thalapathy into politics. Vijay is a person who has helped many anonymously. And people will surely trust him, for he is our next MGR,” said R Velmurugan, district president of Vijay’s fan association in Vellore.

MGR, however, can belong to AIADMK alone, said D Jayakumar, party leader and Tamil Nadu minister. “We can’t interfere with the interests of these fans. Let them praise our party leaders MG Ramachandran sir or Jayalalithaa madam, but let’s not forget that only AIADMK has an exclusive relationship with them,” said Jayakumar. AIADMK can comment only when these Tamil cinema stars start their respective political parties, he added.

DMK echoed the same sentiment. Sources in the party said they’d be willing to comment only when these heroes enter politics in a full-fledged manner. One of them even said that with the huge gap that has risen due to COVID-19, Rajini may think twice about stepping into politics and may do so only if BJP pressurises.

“Rajini has clarified several times that he wears the spiritual cloth and not the saffron one,” said Akbar Pasha. He further said, “Singham single ah dhaan varum (the lion will make its entry all alone).”

Fans of Thalaivar and Thalapathy seem to respect each other’s love for their leaders. However, authorities of Rajini Makkal Mandram have warned their members not to put up posters until further orders.

If only finding shortcuts were as easy as haircuts

 

All it took were a pair of scissors and a comb to hold the strands and cut them to size

Not all are cut out for these styles, but it takes guts to sport them

And if even one strand is out of place, you may cut up rough

Let’s just cut these antics, shall we?

 

Life has no shortcuts, and don’t ever think of getting a cut of this deal

Wish future would cut a demo to prepare you better

So you remain a cut above the rest

Otherwise you get lost in this cut-throat competition

 

When there’s no clear-cut option to choose from

Crew cut may seem like the best choice made

You do want to cut the ice and climb up the ladder

So you don’t end up cutting a sorry figure

 

To cut a long story short…

Dear all, just cut her some slack!

 

 

 

Bangalore Violence: Planned, executed in retaliation to Ram Mandir Bhumi Pujan in Ayodhya?

 

Otherwise known as a peace-loving pensioner’s paradise, Bengaluru suddenly witnessed arson and violence at DJ Halli and KG Halli, which are now under curfew. A derogatory post of a Congress MLA, Srinivas Murthy’s family member Naveen triggered instant unrest on August 11.

“The post hurt religious sentiments and people were provoked,” said MD Sharief, SDPI Bengaluru unit president.

However, would it take minutes for a post to go viral immediately prompting people to gather stones to pelt and procure petrol to set vehicles on fire? So, was this riot pre-planned?

“I would call it an organised riot. At 7 pm, the post goes viral, 8 pm, people go the police. The DCP said he would handle it. In such cases, one can’t expect instant action. But soon after, around 3,000 people are on the streets indulging in arson and violence. Where did the weapons come from?” questioned BJP spokesperson Malavika Avinash, adding that this seems “pre-planned”.

While Karnataka Congress president DK Shivakumar called Naveen a BJP activist, Congress spokesperson Kengal Renu said, “If you call this organised riot, then it is organised by the BJP. They (BJP leaders) have messed up the economy and mishandled the pandemic, and they are now finding reasons to point fingers at the opposition as part of a diversion tactic.”

However, the SDPI said that a 4-hour delay in taking action or arresting Naveen led to this violence. 

Within a week after the Bhumi Pujan of Ram Mandir at Ayodhya, here is rampage involving a particular community. Some netizens on social media suspected this to be in retaliation to the Ayodhya verdict.

“Not just Ram Mandir, we have CAA, triple talaq and more. This could be a result of latent anger,” said Malavika Avinash.

“Why should we politicise the issue? This should be handled as a law and order problem and ensure we establish peace. Did we not condemn when there was a derogatory post on Amit Shah earlier?” asked Congress MLA Dinesh Gundu Rao.

Dismissing the influence of Ayodhya sentiment, Shareif said, “We would have reacted then and there. More than the importance of Masjids, we hold Prophet Mohammed high regard, which is why sentiments run high here.”

So, can violence be the answer to grievance – be it religious or democratic?

Sushant Singh Rajput: The handwriting on the wall

While the CBI has taken over the investigation of Sushant Singh Rajput case, much has been said about the actor. The focus is now on Rhea Chakraborty, who visited the office of the Enforcement Directorate on August 7. Let's try to decipher Sushant's personality through his handwriting? Here we have an expert Devendra Ballabh, who is here to share the analysis of the actor's writing, comparing those written much earlier and the ones written closer to his death. Was there a drastic transition that could be crucial to this case?

Ram Mandir Bhumi Pujan at Ayodhya: Pandemic, power and politics

PM Modi sets the stepping stone of the Hindu nationalist movement at Ayodhya with the Bhumi Pujan or the foundation stone laying ceremony of Ram Mandir. Right since the 1980s, the BJP and the RSS made the Ayodhya dispute, which saw violence and vandalism, a nationwide campaign.

Pandemic: 

As of today, India’s COVID-19 cases is closing in on the 20-lakh mark with around 6 lakh active cases, 12 lakh recoveries and 800 deaths. 

One of the priests from Karnataka’s Belagavi Kulapati NR Vijayendra Sharma fixed the auspicious time for the pujan on August 5 but is unable to attend the ceremony due to COVID fears.

Rameshwar Sharma, Madhya Pradesh Assembly Protem Speaker and BJP leader is of the opinion that beginning of the construction work for Ram Temple in Ayodhya will end the coronavirus pandemic in India. Ironically, it showed its presence soon after 16 policemen and a priest of the temple tested COVID-19 positive. 

Power:

The 2019 judgment of the Supreme Court paved the way for the construction of Ram temple after prolonged years of tussle between two religious communities. The BJP sees this as a promise fulfilled and the electoral gains could possibly land on the lap of Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath. The UP government’s leader is set to oversee the construction and his first step is to gift a 1.5 feet Ram idol, made by Bengaluru artist M Ramamurthy, to PM Modi. 

It’s interesting, however, to note that those leaders, who were the face of the movement then, are now nowhere at the forefront during this ceremony slated for August 5. It’s equally interesting to note that August 5 marks one year since the abrogation of Articles 35A and 370 in Jammu And Kashmir.

Politics:

Religious places across the country have been sending soil and holy water to the site. Soil from River Cauvery’s origin, Tala Kaveri in Karnataka’s Kodagu was sent to Ayodhya after a special pooja. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of other VIPs will attend the ceremony.

Opposition leaders have been expressing their angst ever since the announcement of this Bhumi Pujan. The one leading the move criticising PM Modi is AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, who said, “Attending Bhumi Pujan in official capacity will be a violation of @PMOIndia’s constitutional oath. Secularism is part of the Basic Structure of Constitution 

We can’t forget that for over 400 years Babri stood in Ayodhya & it was demolished by a criminal mob in 1992.”

AIMIM MP from Maharashtra, Imtiaz Jaleel, said if PM Modi can go to the temple for Bhumi Pujan, then why can’t Muslims offer namaz in mosques.

BJP denounced the statement made by AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi claiming leaders of secular democracies across the world including heads of the state have constitutional rights to practice their own religion, in personal capacity, as well as the Prime Minister of India. There’s no ethical, legal or constitutional hassle, they stated. 

Now you’re probably wondering, can you go ahead with that trip you planned on taking, or perhaps a drive down the coastal lines of India? Yes, you can. No ethical, legal or constitutional hassle will come your way. But would you? Your choice can either divide you or unite you with the leaders of our country. These are certainly confusing times for many.

 

After 10 long days, COVID suspect in Bengaluru hunts down hospital that can treat him

On July 17, 60-year-old Ramamurthy, a retired railways employee living in Yelahanka, Bengaluru, was worried to see his younger son down with fever. Every father will only hope that it’s common flu and so did he. His wife prepared a herbal concoction believed to be an immunity booster. However, her fears worsened as her son never got better even after two days of complete rest.

Thus, began their journey, which didn’t see a final destination for 10 long days. “Nobody is willing to pay attention. We are neither very well to do nor do we have the strength to tag along with our 20-year-old son from one hospital to another,” said Ramamurthy.

They first rushed to a hospital in Hebbal, which denied them admission immediately and referred them to Raghavendra Clinic. They were later directed to Prerna Lab to get an X-ray done. “The lab authorities messed it up. They did a CT scan instead and we wasted money,” the father said.

 The older son of the family runs a mobile recharge shop while the younger one works in a steel company earning Rs 20,000 a month. Desperate to get his son treated, Ramamurthy rushed to MS Ramaiah Hospital, but was crestfallen when he was met with the same response as earlier. “They said there is no place for suspects. Once a person gets himself tested elsewhere and is found positive is when they would provide admission,” said Ramamurthy adding that a doctor’s recommendation helps when it comes to private hospitals.

They landed at the doorstep of retired director of Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases Sashidhar Buggi, who tried to help them through Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). However, there was no luck. “I was helpless. He isn’t the first patient seeking help. More often than not, those who need help are denied admission,” said Buggi.

Any patient displaying symptoms must call 108, get to any hospital with an isolation ward, said BBMP commissioner Manjunath Prasad. “The hospital authorities must isolate him first. If symptoms continue, the test will be done. And later, the treatment will be continued. Rapid antigen test could be done immediately,” he added.

“Healthcare is now pure business. Unless I have a confirmed bed in a given hospital, the ambulance will not ferry the patient, no matter what,” said Ramamurthy.

“They charged Rs 4000 for a COVID test for my wife. We finally got our son admitted, after 10 days, to Ashwini Hospital. The test sample has been collected today. We are awaiting his COVID report, which is due by July 29. He is, however, receiving treatment,” Ramamurthy said, heaving a sigh of relief.

The relief is again short-lived. According to the family, the hospital charges Rs 23000 per day for the bed. Rs 12,000 on an average for medicines. How are they going to manage? “We will move heaven and earth for our son,” the family said.

Even if their son gets better and is discharged, their worries don’t end. “We will be branded as COVID positive untouchables in the neighbourhood once the test turns positive on Wednesday. BBMP will seal the place down and commence its drama. Media channels will showcase us on TV, and we will become infamous. The trauma is here to stay,” said Ramamurthy.

How can we help when coronavirus seems to be killing humanity too along with several lives? "If we have a robust software that can work as a central monitoring system involving both government and private hospitals with list of patients registered using Aadhaar, they can work in tandem to solve these problems," said Buggi. Is the Karnataka government taking note?

After Vijay-Ajith mania, are ‘Verithanam’ fans fading in Tamil Nadu?

I have grown up watching Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan films. I have witnessed Tamil cinema craze outside theatres as fans throng the ticket counters almost killing each other to ensure they don’t miss the ‘First Day First Show (FDFS)’. I never thought I’d be one of them carrying on the legacy of fandom, but I was, when I began to worship the next generation of superstars. As a die-hard Vijay fan, I have witnessed fist fights between rival gangs on several occasions. Vijay vs Ajith or Thalapathy vs Thala are common hashtags on social media too.

As a journalist, I’ve been lucky in procuring tickets for every Vijay film – FDFS, giving me access to the thoughts and actions of scores of fans.

Tamil Nadu has kept this tradition of two-hero fandom going since the Sivaji Ganesan-MG Ramachandran (MGR) era. However now, I keep wondering if there is a next gen to this. Apart from Dhanush-Simbu fans, has there been a “I can kill for my hero” feeling running through the veins of any other fan?

“I doubt it. The mindset of film goers has changed from following films featuring favourite actors to films with good storyline,” said fashion student Mukti Swaminathan, who thinks Vijay Sethupathi is one of the latest set of actors, who seems to be the new favourite of many. True to this, he is fondly called Makkal Selvan (people’s treasure).

“Yes, Sivakarthikeyan-Sethupathi can be termed as the latest duo in Kollywood, but the aggressive hero-worship present then has mellowed down considerably,” said Guna, film PR.

Those were the days when there weren’t TV sets in every home. And the only way to catch your favourite movie featuring your favourite hero was when you manage to hit the theatres during its release. “Today, every person in every corner of this state or country has a mobile phone with access to films and entertainment news,” Guna added, claiming that there is no need to hit the theatres and thus the enthusiasm too is kept in check as 24/7 news feeds keep people abreast of events ranging from an actor misbehaving on the sets to an actor slapping a young fan in a fit of rage. “And hence, such information adds to the opinions formed by many fans,” asserted Guna.

Just like the umpteen number of news channels, talents too are way too many now, don’t you agree? Well, class X1 student from Chennai, Akshaya Subramanian, sure does. “Look at Atharva for example. For a new actor, he is really good. Be it action or comedy, he pulls it off with élan. So does Sivakarthikeyan. Thus, it’s difficult for me to claim to be a fan of just one actor or one film,” she said.

After Bigil, Tamil Nadu’s current superstar Vijay is all set for his upcoming release Master. One of the hit songs of Thalapathy is ‘Verithanam’, which means ‘aggressive’. “That verithanam for Vijay or Ajith continues to rage through southern India. I’d call it vera level (unparalleled) set of fans. That star power or aura of Vijay and Ajith hasn’t faded yet. One needs to wait to see who will be the ones holding that mantle next. That won’t be easy to predict for the next ten years,” said Ragavan, assistant director, who aspires to be an actor-director soon.

“On one hand, with OTT platforms gaining an audience, there is a section of people wanting to follow good films and promising directors. But come Pongal or Diwali, you can’t miss another set of audience waiting to catch a Vijay or an Ajith film,” added Ragavan.

Attaining that star power is surely going to take time. Like another Vijay song from Mersal or Ajith’s hit film, it will be interesting to know the next ‘Aala Poraan Tamizhan’ (the Tamilian who’ll rule), who will recreate ‘Varalaru’ (history).

COVID-19: Can you please just shut your mouth?

I woke up to this message forwarded on WhatsApp: “If you can hold your breath for 10 seconds, without coughing or difficulty in breathing it indicates the absence of COVID-19 infection.”

I freshened up and walked into the kitchen to see my mom preparing a concoction with turmeric and ginger. A family friend of ours was advising my parents on the phone, “Ginger is the miracle for coronavirus. The heat that this will produce will kill coronavirus without the need for a vaccine.”

Then there was a message claiming that NASA satellite videos have shown coronavirus retreating in India, thanks to the “cosmic level sound waves created when Indians followed the Prime Minister’s message and clapped during Janata Curfew in March.

Reports even suggested that Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan shared this on social media and was trolled.

I agree there is an element of fear and uncertainty that is making us all anxious and that there is a lot to handle – from maintaining a robust healthcare system to fighting the stigma attached to COVID patients. The least that we as lay men could do is stop portraying ourselves as experts on the subject and spreading fake ‘gyan’ through various platforms.

 “Social media has made everybody an expert,” said Sanjay Pinto, lawyer/columnist. “There is real danger with such fake messages doing the rounds, but sometimes medical advice by non-medical persons end up making pertinent points,” he added, calling it the ‘common-sense’ approach. Instead of fining lockdown violators, Sanjay advised officials to collect Rs 100 as fine and gift the violator 5 masks. And that was indeed well-received in Tamil Nadu.

Even top organisations like the WHO have made several flip-flops with respect to measures advocated to handle the pandemic. Why add to the existing turmoil by lending your unsolicited advice? “Every person seems to have the ‘breaking news’ streak in them,” said Sanjay, adding that he consumes some of these messages with a pinch of salt.

There is still a lot of uncertainty. Is lockdown the answer? Then what about the plunging economy? There is no right answer yet. Even politicians are grappling with the issue of tackling the situation and balancing the market, by seeking expert advice of health officials, while falling prey to the virus.

 “I was given a barrage of advice by all and sundry when I tested positive for COVID-19,” said Karnataka minister CT Ravi. He was the first minister to be COVID-hit in the state, and he is currently being treated. “People suggested and even delivered so many medicines that I could open a pharmacy of my own,” said the minister, adding that he stuck to the doctor’s advice alone and is well on the road to recovery. “The key is to not fall for every information out of burgeoning fear,” Ravi said.

 Dr Shashidhar Buggi, retired director of Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases in Bengaluru, was at the forefront fighting H1N1 outbreak in 2008-09. “There is too much democracy. The educated are now selfish and the uneducated are worried about livelihood. So scientific data is never analysed and presented to the world,” he said, stressing on the fact that media must play a crucial role in disseminating information and doctors must focus more on research.

In fact, PM Modi has been seeking the advice of top public health experts and economic professionals to pave the way forward as the fight for vaccine is still on across the world. Trial and error seem to be the motto driving various nations battling coronavirus.

So, instead of spreading unverified advisories, Buggi wondered why people aren’t raising an important question during COVID-19 outbreak? “Has anyone done a postmortem of a COVID victim? I haven’t heard of any yet? Isn’t that essential for research?” questioned Buggi.

 I hope to wake up to a WhatsApp forward that insists on people wearing a mask and covering their nose instead of letting it hover below the nostrils, while claiming to be a COVID protocol follower. And I hope people spend time on the phone trying to exchange information on building health infrastructure than ‘know-it-all’ recipes to replace vaccines. If we’ve no relevant information to help curb the spread, then let’s please “shut up”, for when all is said and done, MORE is said than DONE.

Let’s please understand that positivity rate of COVID-19 in India is indeed growing at an alarming rate with 11 lakh cases (7 lakh recovered) and 27,497 deaths. If there is one hazy light at the end of the tunnel, it’s the fact that the number of recovered patients has exceeded the country’s active case load by 3,04,043 as on July 19. Let’s please be responsible and help India fight COVID-19.

Sasikala’s impending release: Will she knock on shut AIADMK door or force open Jayalalithaa’s Poes Garden residence?

I remember the time when I stood outside late Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa’s residence at Poes Garden, Chennai, in 2017, when her close aide Sasikala was escorted in a vehicle to Bengaluru prison after being convicted in the disproportionate assets case. While I was doing my Facebook live, Poes Garden, the seat of power in Tamil Nadu then, stood vacant. AIADMK was struggling in the absence of a head to steer the party forward and it was split into two factions – one with Sasikala and another with one of the senior members of the party O Panneerselvam.

It’s been a good four years since the AIADMK pot was stirred, and a lot has changed. But the question now is whether Sasikala’s impending release will change the equation.

“AIADMK has been doing well on its own, and I personally don’t think the party needs any external influence,” said Jayalalithaa’s niece Deepa Jayakumar, who bid farewell to politics after floating her own party initially. Her focus now is on “preserving the family heritage”.

The Tamil Nadu government has displayed keen interest in converting the heavily guarded residence Veda Nilayam (Jayalalithaa’s residence) into a memorial. This was challenged by the Poes Garden Residents Association claiming it would disrupt peaceful living in the residential area. However, the Madras High Court dismissed the petition and suggested that the 24,000 sq ft residence be put to use may be in the form of state chief minister’s official residence.

“Not just Tamil Nadu government, but people of the state want to see the residence as a memorial,” said D Jayakumar, AIADMK leader and minister. Is the government, headed by K Palaniswami, in a hurry to secure custody of Jayalalithaa’s home, since Sasikala, according to reports, is expected to be released from prison after October?

“Her release has nothing to do with this property,” the minister said. If not entry into the residence, will she seek entry into AIADMK? “Our party had then decided to have nothing to do with Sasikala and her family. AIADMK continues to remain firm with this decision,” added Jayakumar.

Deepa’s brother Deepak has moved the court seeking the keys to Veda Nilayam as both of them have been declared legal heirs of Jayalalithaa's properties by the court. “We, as legal heirs, will continue our efforts to retain the Poes Garden residence,” said Deepa, dismissing the fact that Sasikala’s release will impact the possession of Jayalalithaa’s property.

Though silent now, there is one political group in Tamil Nadu waiting for Sasikala’s comeback. The AMMK party, under the leadership of Sasikala’s nephew TTV Dhinakaran, is bidding time. “We would like to comment only after Sasikala’s return from prison. For us, Chinamma (as Sasikala is fondly called) remains our leader,” said AMMK supporter CR Saraswathi.

Sasikala lived in this lavish residence of Jayalalithaa for nearly three decades. Sources say that she is close to Deepak too.

There was a time when even VVIPs couldn’t barge in without an invite. If there was one soul, who could surpass them all and overlook the three check-posts, it was Sasikala.

I, for one, will wait for my next opportune moment to meet you readers in my next FB live when Sasikala is escorted back to Chennai after her release from Bengaluru prison. So long, till then.