Similar to his controversial comments at the audio launch of his previous film Sarkar that hinted at a possible entry into politics, actor Vijay made several pointed references to the current political situation in Tamil Nadu, on Thursday evening at the Bigil audio launch event.
Held at Sri Sairam Engineering College, Vijay began his speech singing a few lines from Verithanam , his song for A.R. Rahman in the film, and said, “I just sent a sample for the song, thinking that A.R. Rahman would ignore it. I didn't expect to sing the song, but Atlee was very encouraging of the idea.”
According to media reports, he then moved on to speak of the death of Subasri, after which the actor had issued a statement asking fans not to put up any banners or hoardings at the event, in the wake of the tragic incident. “Regarding her unfortunate death, the lorry driver has been arrested and the banner maker has been arrested... but those who must be behind bars are still free.”
He then made a veiled comment on the current political climate in the state, “You can't have someone who knows to braid and sell flowers, running a fireworks stall. People with the right skills must be employed in each industry. If people place the right person for the job in the right position, then all the issues will be solved.”
‘Avoid vicious fan wars’
Vijay also addressed the long-standing feud between his and actor Ajith's fans on social media, popularly dubbed as 'Thala-Thalapathy fights'. “Online fan wars are fine as long as they don't cross a line and continue to be fun. If they turn vicious and hurt people, it must be avoided. Social media has plenty of power which much be used for good. Starting hashtags on pressing issues such as at the time of Subasri's death can help bring greater awareness about an important issue,” he said.
Given that Bigil is a film revolving around football, Vijay added, “You can play politics in many ways, but do not let politics enter sports.”
He revealed that he enjoyed learning the sport for the film, and recalled playing with the team during the schedule. The actor went to advise his fans, “Life is also much like football. You will try to score goals, while there will be people who will try to stop you from doing so. There may be others who seem like they are on your side but will score own goals! You must overcome all that to taste victory. Do not embrace another's identity as yours, work to create your own identity. Pick what traits appeal to you and discard what you don't like.”
Vijay also had a retort to his detractors, “My fans place banners and cutouts with lots of love and put in a lot of effort. They naturally are angry when the banners get vandalised. I too feel as upset as they do during such instances. But my request is to not manhandle or assault my fans on this issue. You may tear up my photos or banners, but do not rough up my fans.”
On the global social media trend #PrayForNesamani stemming from his 2001 movie Friends, he replied, “I couldn’t control my laughter at the shooting spot watching Vadivelu. But Suriya was able to stay composed somehow! Friends is one of my favourite films.”
Finally, he also addressed his Bigil director and co-star, saying, “Atlee has reached great heights. You can expect hot and fiery stuff both in the case of 'idli'.. and Atlee as well! I'm also very proud to have Nayanthara who has won many accolades in life, to be part of this movie about women empowerment.”
Bigil , directed by Atlee is touted to be a sports drama and stars Vijay and Nayanthara in the lead roles. Produced by AGS Entertainment with music composed by A.R. Rahman, the supporting cast includes the likes of Kathir, Vivekh, Yogi Babu, Indhuja, Varsha Bollama, etc. The film is set for a Deepavali release.
