PMK youth wing President and Lok Sabha MP from Dharmapuri, Anbumani Ramadoss spoke to reporters here and elaborated about his party's decision to ally with the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-aiadmk-partners-with-pm-modis-bjp-in-tamil-nadu-198319">AIADMK-BJP combine</a> in Tamil Nadu ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

The PMK has been allotted 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat in the alliance. The PMK party is influential in the northern and Western belt of Tamil Nadu and has a significant support base consisting of the Vanniyar community.&nbsp;

Anbumani and his father Dr. Ramadoss had been vocal critics of both Dravidian parties and in the past had spoken about not allying with them. But their seat-sharing pacts, alliance with the AIADMK was announced on February 19th after talks between the party leaders at a star hotel. Later that evening the AIADMK announced its alliance with the BJP as well.&nbsp;

To questions regarding the alliance with the AIADMK, which went against the PMK's earlier stance, Anbumani replied that their party's decision was taken keeping in mind the 'interests and welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu and was taken in consultation with the party rank and file'. He also stated that the current situation in Tamil Nadu is different, in the absence of Jayalalithaa and Karunanidhi and hence the interests of the state need to be protected.

Anbumani also mentioned about the 10-point demand that his party had put forth to the AIADMK. The points include exemption of Tamil Nadu from the NEET exam for medical entrance, the release of 7 convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi case, complete prohibition of liquor and opposing Karnataka's attempts to build a reservoir at Mekedatu over the Cauvery river, among others.

Speaking about the list of corruption charges against the AIADMK that he had earlier handed over to the Governor, Anbumani said that the matter was under investigation and if they are found to be true, severe action must be taken.&nbsp;

Responding to questions regarding&nbsp; NEET and the release of the Rajiv Gandhi case convicts, which require the intervention of the Central government, he said that they would reiterate their demands while they meet with the BJP.&nbsp;

The two major camps in Tamil Nadu are the AIADMK-BJP-PMK combine and the DMK-Congress-Left parties. Smaller regional outfits in the state are also said to be in talks with both factions.

PMK youth wing President and Lok Sabha MP from Dharmapuri, Anbumani Ramadoss spoke to reporters here and elaborated about his party's decision to ally with the AIADMK-BJP combine in Tamil Nadu ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

PMK youth wing President and Lok Sabha MP from Dharmapuri, Anbumani Ramadoss spoke to reporters here and elaborated about his party's decision to ally with the AIADMK-BJP combine in Tamil Nadu ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The PMK has been allotted 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat in the alliance. The PMK party is influential in the northern and Western belt of Tamil Nadu and has a significant support base consisting of the Vanniyar community. Anbumani and his father Dr. Ramadoss had been vocal critics of both Dravidian parties and in the past had spoken about not allying with them. But their seat-sharing pacts, alliance with the AIADMK was announced on February 19th after talks between the party leaders at a star hotel. Later that evening the AIADMK announced its alliance with the BJP as well. To questions regarding the alliance with the AIADMK, which went against the PMK's earlier stance, Anbumani replied that their party's decision was taken keeping in mind the 'interests and welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu and was taken in consultation with the party rank and file'. He also stated that the current situation in Tamil Nadu is different, in the absence of Jayalalithaa and Karunanidhi and hence the interests of the state need to be protected. Anbumani also mentioned about the 10-point demand that his party had put forth to the AIADMK. The points include exemption of Tamil Nadu from the NEET exam for medical entrance, the release of 7 convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi case, complete prohibition of liquor and opposing Karnataka's attempts to build a reservoir at Mekedatu over the Cauvery river, among others. Speaking about the list of corruption charges against the AIADMK that he had earlier handed over to the Governor, Anbumani said that the matter was under investigation and if they are found to be true, severe action must be taken. Responding to questions regarding NEET and the release of the Rajiv Gandhi case convicts, which require the intervention of the Central government, he said that they would reiterate their demands while they meet with the BJP. The two major camps in Tamil Nadu are the AIADMK-BJP-PMK combine and the DMK-Congress-Left parties. Smaller regional outfits in the state are also said to be in talks with both factions.

Alliance with AIADMK- BJP in order to safeguard interests of Tamil Nadu: Anbumani Ramadoss

Rajinikanth paid a courtesy visit to actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth who returned to Chennai last week after receiving treatment in the United States. This comes at a time when the AIADMK and Congress are said to be making attempts to rope in the Vijayakanth-led DMDK into their fold.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Rajinikanth said that “I visited Vijayakanth to inquire about his health and wish him well. When I was unwell, Vijayakanth was the first to meet and greet me. There’s not even an iota of politics in this meeting and I have clarified my plans earlier," he added. &nbsp;

After announcing his intention to foray into Indian politics in late-2017, expectations have been high regarding Rajinikanth’s announcement. However, Rajinikanth recently issued a statement, saying his party would not be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls. However, Rajini’s statement urged the public to think and decide wisely about a party that could solve Tamil Nadu’s water woes and vote them into power.

In the last few days, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and former Tamil Nadu Congress Chief Thirunavakkarasar paid a visit to the DMDK supremo at his residence. Piyush Goyal stated that his visit was on account of a personal relationship with an old friend, but Thirunavakkarasar said that they had a conversation about elections, related developments and that he expected the captain to take a good decision.

This morning, Vijayakanth’s party issued a statement inviting applications from candidates who wish to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from 40 constituencies spread across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.&nbsp;

Later today, actor turned politician Kamal Hassan too is expected to meet Vijayakanth. Though Rajini and Kamal are veterans of the film industry, Vijayakanth has an edge over Rajini and Kamal in terms of his experience as a politician. Popular actor Vijayakanth started the DMDK in 2005. The peak of his party’s performance was ruing the 2011 elections when they allied with Jayalalithaa’s AIADMK and won 29 of the 41 seats that they contested.&nbsp;

Rajinikanth paid a courtesy visit to actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth who returned to Chennai last week after receiving treatment in the United States. This comes at a time when the AIADMK and Congress are said to be making attempts to rope in the Vijayakanth-led DMDK into their fold.

Rajinikanth paid a courtesy visit to actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth who returned to Chennai last week after receiving treatment in the United States. This comes at a time when the AIADMK and Congress are said to be making attempts to rope in the Vijayakanth-led DMDK into their fold. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Rajinikanth said that “I visited Vijayakanth to inquire about his health and wish him well. When I was unwell, Vijayakanth was the first to meet and greet me. There’s not even an iota of politics in this meeting and I have clarified my plans earlier," he added. After announcing his intention to foray into Indian politics in late-2017, expectations have been high regarding Rajinikanth’s announcement. However, Rajinikanth recently issued a statement, saying his party would not be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls. However, Rajini’s statement urged the public to think and decide wisely about a party that could solve Tamil Nadu’s water woes and vote them into power. In the last few days, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and former Tamil Nadu Congress Chief Thirunavakkarasar paid a visit to the DMDK supremo at his residence. Piyush Goyal stated that his visit was on account of a personal relationship with an old friend, but Thirunavakkarasar said that they had a conversation about elections, related developments and that he expected the captain to take a good decision. This morning, Vijayakanth’s party issued a statement inviting applications from candidates who wish to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from 40 constituencies spread across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Later today, actor turned politician Kamal Hassan too is expected to meet Vijayakanth. Though Rajini and Kamal are veterans of the film industry, Vijayakanth has an edge over Rajini and Kamal in terms of his experience as a politician. Popular actor Vijayakanth started the DMDK in 2005. The peak of his party’s performance was ruing the 2011 elections when they allied with Jayalalithaa’s AIADMK and won 29 of the 41 seats that they contested.

Rajinikanth's meeting with DMDK leader Vijayakanth didn't have even 'an iota of politics in it'

All India N R Congress (AINRC) has been allotted lone Puducherry seat in AIADMK-PMK-BJP alliance in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

The NR Congress joined hands with the AIADMK-PMK-BJP alliance and has been allotted the lone Lot Sabha constituency in Puducherry. The alliance was firmed up at the AIADMK party office in Chennai in the presence of AIADMK coordinators Edappadi K Palaniswami, Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and NR Congress chief N Rangaswamy.&nbsp;

Over the last two days the AIADMK, DMK and other major political parties in Tamil Nadu made official announcements about their seat-sharing pacts with the BJP, PMK and the Congress. Now, the parties are in talks with smaller regional outfits.

The NR Congress is a breakaway faction of the Indian National Congress. It was formed on February 2011 by N Rangaswamy, the former Chief Minister of Puducherry. The incumbent Member of Parliament R. Radhakrihsnan from the Puducherry constituency is from NR Congress.&nbsp;

Within a few days, the smaller parties in Tamil Nadu are expected to forge their ties with the both AIADMK or DMK camps. Currently, the DMDK of captain Vijayakanth is in talks with both the factions, while the Left parties, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam(MDMK) and Manithaneya Makkal Katchi(MMK) are in talks with the DMK led-front. The AIADMK is also said to be in talks with the Tamil Maanila Congress(TMC) and Puthiya Tamizhagam.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have a total of 40 Lok Sabha seats. As per the current seat-sharing arrangements, AIADMK has allotted five seats to the BJP, seven Lok Sabha seats and one Rajya Sabha seat to the PMK and one seat for the NR Congress.&nbsp;

The DMK has allotted 10 seats to the Congress party.

All India N R Congress (AINRC) has been allotted lone Puducherry seat in AIADMK-PMK-BJP alliance in Tamil Nadu. The NR Congress joined hands with the AIADMK-PMK-BJP alliance and has been allotted the lone Lot Sabha constituency in Puducherry.

All India N R Congress (AINRC) has been allotted lone Puducherry seat in AIADMK-PMK-BJP alliance in Tamil Nadu. The NR Congress joined hands with the AIADMK-PMK-BJP alliance and has been allotted the lone Lot Sabha constituency in Puducherry. The alliance was firmed up at the AIADMK party office in Chennai in the presence of AIADMK coordinators Edappadi K Palaniswami, Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and NR Congress chief N Rangaswamy. Over the last two days the AIADMK, DMK and other major political parties in Tamil Nadu made official announcements about their seat-sharing pacts with the BJP, PMK and the Congress. Now, the parties are in talks with smaller regional outfits. The NR Congress is a breakaway faction of the Indian National Congress. It was formed on February 2011 by N Rangaswamy, the former Chief Minister of Puducherry. The incumbent Member of Parliament R. Radhakrihsnan from the Puducherry constituency is from NR Congress. Within a few days, the smaller parties in Tamil Nadu are expected to forge their ties with the both AIADMK or DMK camps. Currently, the DMDK of captain Vijayakanth is in talks with both the factions, while the Left parties, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam(MDMK) and Manithaneya Makkal Katchi(MMK) are in talks with the DMK led-front. The AIADMK is also said to be in talks with the Tamil Maanila Congress(TMC) and Puthiya Tamizhagam. Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have a total of 40 Lok Sabha seats. As per the current seat-sharing arrangements, AIADMK has allotted five seats to the BJP, seven Lok Sabha seats and one Rajya Sabha seat to the PMK and one seat for the NR Congress. The DMK has allotted 10 seats to the Congress party.

It's Congress vs NR Congress in Puducherry Lok Sabha seat

A day after the AIADMK formally announced its alliance and the seat-sharing pact with the BJP and PMK in Tamil Nadu, the DMK also made an official announcement of its alliance, a seat-sharing pact with the Congress.

DMK President MK Stalin’s proposal of Rahul Gandhi as Prime Ministerial candidate at the Karunanidhi statue unveiling in Chennai was seen as a clear indication of the reunion of the UPA allies. However, an official announcement had been pending.

The announcement was made at the DMK Headquarters in the presence of the DMK high command and Congress leaders. The DMK has allocated nine seats in Tamil Nadu and one seat in Puducherry for the Congress. However, no specific details were shared regarding the allocation of constituencies and the parties that are expected to join the alliance in the days to come.

While making the alliance announcement DMK president MK Stalin took a dig at the manner in which the AIADMK-BJP-PMK alliance was finalized in a star hotel. Speaking to reporters Stalin said, “Our announcement has been made formally from the party headquarters and not stealthily from a star hotel like the AIADMK-BJP alliance”.&nbsp;

The coming together of the DMK and Congress is happening after a brief hiatus, as they went it alone in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. The DMK suffered one of its worst defeats in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu, when they contested 35 seats on their own, with the remaining five being given to regional allies. The DMK had refused to have an alliance with the Congress due to the contentious Sri-Lankan Tamils issue.&nbsp;

In the 2014 Lok Sabha election, both DMK and Congress candidates drew a blank in Tamil Nadu. It was a sweep for the Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK which swept 37 seats, and one seat each for the BJP, PMK and NR Congress. However, this election will be different for both the AIADMK and the DMK, in the absence of their respective veteran leaders Jayalalithaa and M Karunanidhi.

Parties including CPI, CPI(M), IUML, VCK are also expected to be a part of the DMK-Congress alliance. Be it the 2011 and 2016 assembly election or the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, it was the AIADMK that emerged triumphantly. Hence, this time the DMK has an opportunity to ride on the anti-incumbency wave.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha election dates haven’t been announced, but the battle has begun in Tamil Nadu. In the days to come, smaller parties will also finalize their negotiations and joins hands with one of the groupings.

A day after the AIADMK formally announced its alliance and the seat-sharing pact with the BJP and PMK in Tamil Nadu, the DMK also made an official announcement of its alliance, a seat-sharing pact with the Congress.

A day after the AIADMK formally announced its alliance and the seat-sharing pact with the BJP and PMK in Tamil Nadu, the DMK also made an official announcement of its alliance, a seat-sharing pact with the Congress. DMK President MK Stalin’s proposal of Rahul Gandhi as Prime Ministerial candidate at the Karunanidhi statue unveiling in Chennai was seen as a clear indication of the reunion of the UPA allies. However, an official announcement had been pending. The announcement was made at the DMK Headquarters in the presence of the DMK high command and Congress leaders. The DMK has allocated nine seats in Tamil Nadu and one seat in Puducherry for the Congress. However, no specific details were shared regarding the allocation of constituencies and the parties that are expected to join the alliance in the days to come. While making the alliance announcement DMK president MK Stalin took a dig at the manner in which the AIADMK-BJP-PMK alliance was finalized in a star hotel. Speaking to reporters Stalin said, “Our announcement has been made formally from the party headquarters and not stealthily from a star hotel like the AIADMK-BJP alliance”. The coming together of the DMK and Congress is happening after a brief hiatus, as they went it alone in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. The DMK suffered one of its worst defeats in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu, when they contested 35 seats on their own, with the remaining five being given to regional allies. The DMK had refused to have an alliance with the Congress due to the contentious Sri-Lankan Tamils issue. In the 2014 Lok Sabha election, both DMK and Congress candidates drew a blank in Tamil Nadu. It was a sweep for the Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK which swept 37 seats, and one seat each for the BJP, PMK and NR Congress. However, this election will be different for both the AIADMK and the DMK, in the absence of their respective veteran leaders Jayalalithaa and M Karunanidhi. Parties including CPI, CPI(M), IUML, VCK are also expected to be a part of the DMK-Congress alliance. Be it the 2011 and 2016 assembly election or the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, it was the AIADMK that emerged triumphantly. Hence, this time the DMK has an opportunity to ride on the anti-incumbency wave. The Lok Sabha election dates haven’t been announced, but the battle has begun in Tamil Nadu. In the days to come, smaller parties will also finalize their negotiations and joins hands with one of the groupings.

Lok Sabha 2019: Congress seals alliance with DMK, to contest 9 seats in Tamil Nadu

Ending weeks of speculation, Tamil Nadu's ruling party the AIADMK made two important alliance announcements in a day, &nbsp;offering 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat to the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and 5 Lok Sabha seats to the BJP.

The first announcement of 8 seats to the PMK came earlier in the day, after negotiations between the Aiadmk and PMK top brass, at a star hotel in Chennai. PMK gains electoral significance due to their strong Vanniyar vote bank in certain pockets of the state. In the past elections, they secured a 10-25% vote share in their strongholds.

It was expected that BJP President Amit Shah would visit Chennai today to firm up and make an announcement regarding the alliance. However, it was Union Minister Piyush Goyal would fly down to Chennai for the task. Piyush Goyal also made a visit to Chennai on 14th February to hold the initial round of talks.

Of the 40 seats spread across Tamil Nadu and &nbsp;Pondicherry, the AIADMK has offered 12 seats to its allies. Besides the BJP and PMK, the Aiadmk was said to be in talks with the DMDK, TMC and other smaller outfits. Which means that the AIADMK could part with a few more seats before finalizing their front.

The DMK was the party from Tamil Nadu to make the first move and express support for the Congress. However, talks are still said to be underway between the DMK and Congress, and no official announcement of their alliance has been made yet. Other parties such as the CPI, CPI(M), MDMK and VCK are also said to be inclined towards the DMK-Congress alliance.

Given that the AIADMK has made their announcement, it would be safe to say that the DMK alliance announcement will not be prolonged. Tamil Nadu will not witness the campaigns of veteran leaders such as Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, but an interesting election season awaits as the BJP makes attempts to foray into the heartland of Dravidian politics.

Ending weeks of speculation, Tamil Nadu's ruling party the AIADMK made two important alliance announcements in a day, offering 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat to the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and 5 Lok Sabha seats to the BJP.

Ending weeks of speculation, Tamil Nadu's ruling party the AIADMK made two important alliance announcements in a day, offering 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat to the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and 5 Lok Sabha seats to the BJP. The first announcement of 8 seats to the PMK came earlier in the day, after negotiations between the Aiadmk and PMK top brass, at a star hotel in Chennai. PMK gains electoral significance due to their strong Vanniyar vote bank in certain pockets of the state. In the past elections, they secured a 10-25% vote share in their strongholds. It was expected that BJP President Amit Shah would visit Chennai today to firm up and make an announcement regarding the alliance. However, it was Union Minister Piyush Goyal would fly down to Chennai for the task. Piyush Goyal also made a visit to Chennai on 14th February to hold the initial round of talks. Of the 40 seats spread across Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry, the AIADMK has offered 12 seats to its allies. Besides the BJP and PMK, the Aiadmk was said to be in talks with the DMDK, TMC and other smaller outfits. Which means that the AIADMK could part with a few more seats before finalizing their front. The DMK was the party from Tamil Nadu to make the first move and express support for the Congress. However, talks are still said to be underway between the DMK and Congress, and no official announcement of their alliance has been made yet. Other parties such as the CPI, CPI(M), MDMK and VCK are also said to be inclined towards the DMK-Congress alliance. Given that the AIADMK has made their announcement, it would be safe to say that the DMK alliance announcement will not be prolonged. Tamil Nadu will not witness the campaigns of veteran leaders such as Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, but an interesting election season awaits as the BJP makes attempts to foray into the heartland of Dravidian politics.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: After weeks of speculation, AIADMK announces alliance with BJP and PMK

Putting an end to speculations about his plans to contest in the upcoming <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajinikanth-meets-his-forum-members-136089">Lok Sabha polls</a>, superstar Rajinikanth has issued a statement saying that he would not be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls.&nbsp;

The actor said that he has not offered his support to any of the parties and asked political parties to refrain from using his photo/party flag under the banner of Rajini Makkal Mandram or <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ready-to-face-polls-even-in-six-months-rajinikanth-29915?amp">Rajini Rasigar Mandram</a> (fans association) to campaign or promote any political party.&nbsp;

Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces, he said in the statement. ''Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution,'' the statement added.

Rajinikanth had announced his decision to foray into politics in late 2017, amid much cheer and fanfare. While Rajinikanth unified his fan clubs under the banner "Rajini Makkal Mandram", he did not formally launch a political party or get it registered.&nbsp;

Actors started foraying into politics after they saw a vacuum in the Tamil Nadu political sphere after the demise of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa in late 2016. During the same period, DMK supremo M Karunanidhi was also out of active politics due to age-related issues, until his demise in August 2018.&nbsp;

Rajinikanth is not the only actor to have announced his political foray.&nbsp; 
Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan too has his political party called &nbsp;"Makkal Needhi Maiam". But Kamal is a step ahead, as he has registered his party with the election commission of India and has also started campaigning in rural areas across Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Kamal has also expressed interest to contest in the Lok Sabha polls but hasn't really given further details regarding his plans or electoral alliances.&nbsp;

All through 2018, Rajinikanth made political statements and also hinted that he had an ideological inclination towards the ruling BJP.

On a few occasions, he also made statements in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These statements fuelled speculations about Rajini being the BJP's probable trump card in Tamil Nadu where on-screen idols such as MGR and Jayalalithaa have been able to convert popularity into votes.

Even former five-time chief minister M Karunanidhi, who was a screenwriter had used films as a medium to express his political messaging.&nbsp;

Putting an end to speculations about his plans to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, superstar Rajinikanth has issued a statement saying that he would not be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls.

Putting an end to speculations about his plans to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, superstar Rajinikanth has issued a statement saying that he would not be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. The actor said that he has not offered his support to any of the parties and asked political parties to refrain from using his photo/party flag under the banner of Rajini Makkal Mandram or Rajini Rasigar Mandram (fans association) to campaign or promote any political party. Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces, he said in the statement. ''Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution,'' the statement added. Rajinikanth had announced his decision to foray into politics in late 2017, amid much cheer and fanfare. While Rajinikanth unified his fan clubs under the banner "Rajini Makkal Mandram", he did not formally launch a political party or get it registered. Actors started foraying into politics after they saw a vacuum in the Tamil Nadu political sphere after the demise of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa in late 2016. During the same period, DMK supremo M Karunanidhi was also out of active politics due to age-related issues, until his demise in August 2018. Rajinikanth is not the only actor to have announced his political foray. Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan too has his political party called "Makkal Needhi Maiam". But Kamal is a step ahead, as he has registered his party with the election commission of India and has also started campaigning in rural areas across Tamil Nadu. Kamal has also expressed interest to contest in the Lok Sabha polls but hasn't really given further details regarding his plans or electoral alliances. All through 2018, Rajinikanth made political statements and also hinted that he had an ideological inclination towards the ruling BJP. On a few occasions, he also made statements in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These statements fuelled speculations about Rajini being the BJP's probable trump card in Tamil Nadu where on-screen idols such as MGR and Jayalalithaa have been able to convert popularity into votes. Even former five-time chief minister M Karunanidhi, who was a screenwriter had used films as a medium to express his political messaging.

Rajinikanth says he will not contest Lok Sabha polls, targets Assembly election

Over 100 tech start-ups and innovators showcased their wide-ranging products and services to investors, industries and aspiring entrepreneurs at the first edition of Demo Day held at the IIT-Madras Research Park campus.&nbsp;

The innovations were aimed at enhancing existing technologies and developing better versions of existing ones in various fields such as manufacturing, electric vehicles, internet of things, agriculture technology, solar energy, healthcare, biotechnology and data sciences.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION Priya Mohan, a Senior member of the IIT Incubation cell team said, "incubation cell is open to all body. This is a technology business incubator that supports entrepreneurs who are looking to kickstart their ventures. We offer support services like office space, seed funding, mentoring, training and networking opportunities and connect to industry and potential collaborators.”&nbsp;

Any startup that wishes to scale up and obtain funding, can apply on the Incubation Cell Portal, after which screening and evaluation are done. Then the startup is provided seed funding from Rs. 5lakh to 50lakhs based on the requirements, she added.&nbsp;

We take you through some of the iconic exhibits and projects at the event:

1. Planys Technologies - Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Can access a depth of 120m and also provide live camera feed to the control centre via a tether that provides power supply. The team has developed 6 vehicles to suit different requirements. This ROV was used to augment the efforts of the Indian Navy during the rescue operations in the Meghalaya Mine tragedy.&nbsp;

2. Neomotion Assistive - Customizable Wheelchair cum Scooter for the Physically challenged. (Prototype under testing) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Provides up to 30Kms range on a single charge with a top speed of 25Kmph. Meant to be used on typical Indian road conditions. The scooter can easily be detached from the wheelchair, hence allowing it to be used indoors as well.&nbsp;

3.Agnikul Cosmos - Affordable Rocket launches to Low Earth Orbit with payloads unto 100Kgs (Under technology demonstration and development stage) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Uses certain 3-d Printed components for Engine parts. To be powered by Kerosene and liquid oxygen. 3-Stage rocket under development.&nbsp;

4. Merkel Haptic Systems - Mixed and virtual reality healthcare training simulators with Haptic feedback (Product developed and available). It recreates scenarios of medical emergencies and allows medical professionals and support staff to learn/practice complicated procedures.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION about the importance of such events, Ex-CEO of Cognizant said, “we want investors to chase ideas and young minds that are raring to go, rather than founders chasing investments. We have achieved that here in this Chennai demo day.”

Other projects that are under various phases of development and testing include, a device that could convert air into water and ice using a single compressor, Carbon Fibre 3-D printing solutions, Robots to inspect the integrity of industrial pipelines and drones that could enable delivery of goods weighing less than 6Kg.&nbsp;

Over 100 tech start-ups and innovators showcased their wide-ranging products and services to investors, industries and aspiring entrepreneurs at the first edition of Demo Day held at the IIT-Madras Research Park campus.

Over 100 tech start-ups and innovators showcased their wide-ranging products and services to investors, industries and aspiring entrepreneurs at the first edition of Demo Day held at the IIT-Madras Research Park campus. The innovations were aimed at enhancing existing technologies and developing better versions of existing ones in various fields such as manufacturing, electric vehicles, internet of things, agriculture technology, solar energy, healthcare, biotechnology and data sciences. Speaking to WION Priya Mohan, a Senior member of the IIT Incubation cell team said, "incubation cell is open to all body. This is a technology business incubator that supports entrepreneurs who are looking to kickstart their ventures. We offer support services like office space, seed funding, mentoring, training and networking opportunities and connect to industry and potential collaborators.” Any startup that wishes to scale up and obtain funding, can apply on the Incubation Cell Portal, after which screening and evaluation are done. Then the startup is provided seed funding from Rs. 5lakh to 50lakhs based on the requirements, she added. We take you through some of the iconic exhibits and projects at the event: 1. Planys Technologies - Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Can access a depth of 120m and also provide live camera feed to the control centre via a tether that provides power supply. The team has developed 6 vehicles to suit different requirements. This ROV was used to augment the efforts of the Indian Navy during the rescue operations in the Meghalaya Mine tragedy. 2. Neomotion Assistive - Customizable Wheelchair cum Scooter for the Physically challenged. (Prototype under testing) Provides up to 30Kms range on a single charge with a top speed of 25Kmph. Meant to be used on typical Indian road conditions. The scooter can easily be detached from the wheelchair, hence allowing it to be used indoors as well. 3.Agnikul Cosmos - Affordable Rocket launches to Low Earth Orbit with payloads unto 100Kgs (Under technology demonstration and development stage) Uses certain 3-d Printed components for Engine parts. To be powered by Kerosene and liquid oxygen. 3-Stage rocket under development. 4. Merkel Haptic Systems - Mixed and virtual reality healthcare training simulators with Haptic feedback (Product developed and available). It recreates scenarios of medical emergencies and allows medical professionals and support staff to learn/practice complicated procedures. Speaking to WION about the importance of such events, Ex-CEO of Cognizant said, “we want investors to chase ideas and young minds that are raring to go, rather than founders chasing investments. We have achieved that here in this Chennai demo day.” Other projects that are under various phases of development and testing include, a device that could convert air into water and ice using a single compressor, Carbon Fibre 3-D printing solutions, Robots to inspect the integrity of industrial pipelines and drones that could enable delivery of goods weighing less than 6Kg.

Tech start-ups galore at IIT Madras research park demo day

Captain Vijayakanth, leader of Tamil Nadu’s DMDK (Desiya Murpokku Dravidar Kazhagam), will return from the US on February 16, said a statement from his party.&nbsp;

Vijayakanth had left for the US on December 18&nbsp;for treatment and will return in a complete state of wellness the statement added.&nbsp;

His return comes at a time when speculations are rife that the DMDK is in talks with the ruling AIADMK and the BJP in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls. Tamil Nadu’s opposition party the DMK is expected to form an alliance with the Congress, Left parties, VCK and MDMK.&nbsp;

DMDK’s Deputy Secretary LK Sudhish, who is also Vijayakanth’s brother-in-law said to reporters that they were in talks with 2-3 parties and that an announcement regarding alliance could be expected by the end of February.&nbsp;

Popular actor Vijayakanth had started the DMDK in 2005 and since then the party has had a journey of ups and downs. When the party contested in the 2006 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls and won a single seat that was contested by Vijayakanth.&nbsp;

In the subsequent elections in 2011, his party allied with Jayalalithaa’s AIADMK and won 29 of the 41 seats that they contested. That was the peak of the DMDK’s electoral performance as the party later fell out with the AIADMK and some of their MLAs defected.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls the DMDK allied with the NDA, and failed to win any seat. In the 2016 Assembly Polls, Vijayakanth joined the People’s Welfare Front and yet again failed to win any seat. The questionremains if Vijayakanth, who is also known as 'Captain', can again make an impact and boost their cadre ahead of the Lok Sabha polls and thus help in scripting new innings for his party.&nbsp;

Captain Vijayakanth, leader of Tamil Nadu’s DMDK (Desiya Murpokku Dravidar Kazhagam), will return from the US on February 16, said a statement from his party. Vijayakanth had left for the US on December 18 for treatment and will return in a complete state of wellness the statement added.

Captain Vijayakanth, leader of Tamil Nadu’s DMDK (Desiya Murpokku Dravidar Kazhagam), will return from the US on February 16, said a statement from his party. Vijayakanth had left for the US on December 18 for treatment and will return in a complete state of wellness the statement added. His return comes at a time when speculations are rife that the DMDK is in talks with the ruling AIADMK and the BJP in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls. Tamil Nadu’s opposition party the DMK is expected to form an alliance with the Congress, Left parties, VCK and MDMK. DMDK’s Deputy Secretary LK Sudhish, who is also Vijayakanth’s brother-in-law said to reporters that they were in talks with 2-3 parties and that an announcement regarding alliance could be expected by the end of February. Popular actor Vijayakanth had started the DMDK in 2005 and since then the party has had a journey of ups and downs. When the party contested in the 2006 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls and won a single seat that was contested by Vijayakanth. In the subsequent elections in 2011, his party allied with Jayalalithaa’s AIADMK and won 29 of the 41 seats that they contested. That was the peak of the DMDK’s electoral performance as the party later fell out with the AIADMK and some of their MLAs defected. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls the DMDK allied with the NDA, and failed to win any seat. In the 2016 Assembly Polls, Vijayakanth joined the People’s Welfare Front and yet again failed to win any seat. The questionremains if Vijayakanth, who is also known as 'Captain', can again make an impact and boost their cadre ahead of the Lok Sabha polls and thus help in scripting new innings for his party.

Tamil Nadu: DMDK chief Vijayakanth to return from US, alliance announcement soon 

A post on her Facebook wall reads, “Received a No Caste, No Religion Government certificate”. This post is followed by innumerable congratulatory posts by her friends and colleagues.&nbsp;

This is the profile of 35-year old Sneha Parthibaraja, an advocate based out of Tirupattur in Tamil Nadu’s Vellore district. But there is an interesting tale behind this certificate, which leads us to her childhood.&nbsp;

She is the eldest daughter of Aanandkrishnan and Manimozhi, an inter-caste couple who got married without following any wedding rituals or traditions. As opposed to the tradition of using the first letter of the father’s name as one’s initial, she carries the first letters of her mother’s and father’s names respectively. Hence she is M A Sneha. &nbsp;

Her first brush with caste and religion was in school. While she was in her First standard, the school authorities questioned her parents about her caste, when they replied that she had none. They asked for her religion, to which they again replied in the negative. This trend continued all through her formative years, even during college, she had left the Caste and religion columns blank, while filling up the application forms. Speaking to WION she said, “our friends and relatives have always supported this way of life and I was considered a role model in school.”

<img alt="Sneha-certi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30e26ecd-66ac-4b48-9632-39d6679febc8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/certificate.JPG" />

This upbringing wasn’t just limited to her, her younger sisters Mumtaj Suriya and Jennifer were also given names that belonged to different faiths. Sneha added that this upbringing wasn’t without challenges and taunts, their family would often get asked how they would get the girls married off and how they would avail reservation benefits without a caste certificate or faith in religion. Despite all of it, Sneha followed her parent's footsteps, she married Professor Parthiba Raja, in a ceremony sans religious and caste based-rituals.&nbsp;

<img alt="Sneha-family" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b2d41f6-d91c-4eb3-9528-457602210930" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190214-WA0063.jpg" />

The couple has three daughters, Aathira Nazreen, Aathila Irene and Aarifa Jessy who have been named in a manner that transcends religion and caste identities. She may be an outlier in a society that demands Caste certificates almost everywhere, but her strong belief in the ideals of Karl Marx, Dr Ambedkar and Periyar has been the prime motivation.&nbsp;

On realizing that there are certificates for those that follow the caste system, but none for those like Sneha who do not follow either religion or caste.&nbsp;

That’s when the quest for a ‘No Caste, No Religion’ Certificate began. In her struggle for the certificate, she was faced with Government officials who claimed that they lacked the power and authority to issue such a certificate.&nbsp;

Sneha said that between 2010-17 she had given 5 requisition letters to seek the Certificate, but all of them went in vain. The scenario changed when she finally applied for a community certificate by following due procedure via the Village Administrative Officer and Tahsildar, while also explaining her objective.&nbsp;

But all of her efforts attained fruition on February 5th when the Tirupattur Tahsildar TS Sathiyamoorthy issued the certificate on 5th February.&nbsp;

“I see this certificate as a recognition of the system that we have been following as a family”, she told WION.&nbsp;

However, she also clarifies that they are in no way against the reservation system. She believes that Reservation has been a boon for the oppressed castes. Our battle is against oppression but not caste reservation, she adds.

Speaking about the certificate, her husband Parthiba Raja said, “This system of not following religion or caste is what brought us together in life. From a young age she has been fighting this battle, now we are delighted that she has got formal recognition. We have also been getting calls and queries from like-minded people on how they could apply for this certificate”.&nbsp;

He adds, “We want a caste-free society that accepts people as they are. We are for social justice. Until we have a truly caste-free society, the oppressed people must assert their caste identity and avail reservations and better opportunities.”&nbsp;

Sneha’s feat has gained more traction after Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan tweeted out a picture of her and congratulated her. Since then wishes have been pouring in from social media platforms, hailing her revolutionary step. As word spreads about this unique and unprecedented development, many more applicants could follow suit.

A post on her Facebook wall reads, “Received a No Caste, No Religion Government certificate”. This post is followed by innumerable congratulatory posts by her friends and colleagues.

A post on her Facebook wall reads, “Received a No Caste, No Religion Government certificate”. This post is followed by innumerable congratulatory posts by her friends and colleagues. This is the profile of 35-year old Sneha Parthibaraja, an advocate based out of Tirupattur in Tamil Nadu’s Vellore district. But there is an interesting tale behind this certificate, which leads us to her childhood. She is the eldest daughter of Aanandkrishnan and Manimozhi, an inter-caste couple who got married without following any wedding rituals or traditions. As opposed to the tradition of using the first letter of the father’s name as one’s initial, she carries the first letters of her mother’s and father’s names respectively. Hence she is M A Sneha. Her first brush with caste and religion was in school. While she was in her First standard, the school authorities questioned her parents about her caste, when they replied that she had none. They asked for her religion, to which they again replied in the negative. This trend continued all through her formative years, even during college, she had left the Caste and religion columns blank, while filling up the application forms. Speaking to WION she said, “our friends and relatives have always supported this way of life and I was considered a role model in school.” This upbringing wasn’t just limited to her, her younger sisters Mumtaj Suriya and Jennifer were also given names that belonged to different faiths. Sneha added that this upbringing wasn’t without challenges and taunts, their family would often get asked how they would get the girls married off and how they would avail reservation benefits without a caste certificate or faith in religion. Despite all of it, Sneha followed her parent's footsteps, she married Professor Parthiba Raja, in a ceremony sans religious and caste based-rituals. The couple has three daughters, Aathira Nazreen, Aathila Irene and Aarifa Jessy who have been named in a manner that transcends religion and caste identities. She may be an outlier in a society that demands Caste certificates almost everywhere, but her strong belief in the ideals of Karl Marx, Dr Ambedkar and Periyar has been the prime motivation. On realizing that there are certificates for those that follow the caste system, but none for those like Sneha who do not follow either religion or caste. That’s when the quest for a ‘No Caste, No Religion’ Certificate began. In her struggle for the certificate, she was faced with Government officials who claimed that they lacked the power and authority to issue such a certificate. Sneha said that between 2010-17 she had given 5 requisition letters to seek the Certificate, but all of them went in vain. The scenario changed when she finally applied for a community certificate by following due procedure via the Village Administrative Officer and Tahsildar, while also explaining her objective. But all of her efforts attained fruition on February 5th when the Tirupattur Tahsildar TS Sathiyamoorthy issued the certificate on 5th February. “I see this certificate as a recognition of the system that we have been following as a family”, she told WION. However, she also clarifies that they are in no way against the reservation system. She believes that Reservation has been a boon for the oppressed castes. Our battle is against oppression but not caste reservation, she adds. Speaking about the certificate, her husband Parthiba Raja said, “This system of not following religion or caste is what brought us together in life. From a young age she has been fighting this battle, now we are delighted that she has got formal recognition. We have also been getting calls and queries from like-minded people on how they could apply for this certificate”. He adds, “We want a caste-free society that accepts people as they are. We are for social justice. Until we have a truly caste-free society, the oppressed people must assert their caste identity and avail reservations and better opportunities.” Sneha’s feat has gained more traction after Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan tweeted out a picture of her and congratulated her. Since then wishes have been pouring in from social media platforms, hailing her revolutionary step. As word spreads about this unique and unprecedented development, many more applicants could follow suit.

Sneha Parthibaraja, India's first woman without religion, without caste

AIADMK is likely to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, according to reports.

Speaking to WION, sources in the AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s ruling party and the BJP have stated that an alliance between the two parties ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections could be announced on February 10 in Tiruppur in Southern Tamil Nadu, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to address a public rally.&nbsp;

The BJP source has hinted that most of the parties from Tamil Nadu, who were part of the NDA in 2014 could be retained in the alliance that is to be formed ahead of this year’s Lok Sabha Poll.&nbsp;

The source also added that “chances of the announcement being made soon was very bright”.&nbsp;

This comes at a time when the AIADMK is issuing applications (from February 4 - 10) to aspiring Lok Sabha candidates at a cost of Rs. 25000.&nbsp;

In the last few weeks, certain AIADMK leaders were critical of the BJP and expressed reservations about an alliance. They also said that the party cadre was against an alliance, as they claimed that the public mood was against the BJP in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

However, some leaders also issued clarifications saying that only the executive can decide.&nbsp;

At the unveiling of the Karunanidhi statue in Chennai, DMK president M K Stalin had proposed Rahul Gandhi as Prime Ministerial Candidate. With the DMK backing the Congress, the only major prospective ally in Tamil Nadu for the BJP is the AIADMK.

Speaking on the likely announcement of the alliance, senior journalist Kalyan Arun said, “this comes as no surprise. The only option for the AIADMK and BJP would be to ally with each other, as the Left parties in Tamil Nadu could also join hands with the Congress-DMK combine.”&nbsp;

Regarding the scenario, at the polls, he said, “it would be interesting to see how much of the AIADMK votes would be cut by the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK. The BJP has not been very successful in the Southern States, and especially so in Tamil Nadu.”&nbsp;

In the run-up to the Prime Minister’s February 10 rally in Tiruppur, more details could emerge about the likely alliance and the smaller parties that could join hands with the AIADMK-BJP combine.

AIADMK is likely to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, according to reports. Speaking to WION, sources in the AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s ruling party and the BJP have stated that an alliance between the two parties ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections could be announced on February 10 in Tiruppur in Southern Tamil Nadu, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to address a public rally.

AIADMK is likely to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, according to reports. Speaking to WION, sources in the AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s ruling party and the BJP have stated that an alliance between the two parties ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections could be announced on February 10 in Tiruppur in Southern Tamil Nadu, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to address a public rally. The BJP source has hinted that most of the parties from Tamil Nadu, who were part of the NDA in 2014 could be retained in the alliance that is to be formed ahead of this year’s Lok Sabha Poll. The source also added that “chances of the announcement being made soon was very bright”. This comes at a time when the AIADMK is issuing applications (from February 4 - 10) to aspiring Lok Sabha candidates at a cost of Rs. 25000. In the last few weeks, certain AIADMK leaders were critical of the BJP and expressed reservations about an alliance. They also said that the party cadre was against an alliance, as they claimed that the public mood was against the BJP in Tamil Nadu. However, some leaders also issued clarifications saying that only the executive can decide. At the unveiling of the Karunanidhi statue in Chennai, DMK president M K Stalin had proposed Rahul Gandhi as Prime Ministerial Candidate. With the DMK backing the Congress, the only major prospective ally in Tamil Nadu for the BJP is the AIADMK. Speaking on the likely announcement of the alliance, senior journalist Kalyan Arun said, “this comes as no surprise. The only option for the AIADMK and BJP would be to ally with each other, as the Left parties in Tamil Nadu could also join hands with the Congress-DMK combine.” Regarding the scenario, at the polls, he said, “it would be interesting to see how much of the AIADMK votes would be cut by the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK. The BJP has not been very successful in the Southern States, and especially so in Tamil Nadu.” In the run-up to the Prime Minister’s February 10 rally in Tiruppur, more details could emerge about the likely alliance and the smaller parties that could join hands with the AIADMK-BJP combine.

BJP-AIADMK alliance likely to be announced on February 10: Sources

After enthralling fans by playing scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-is-now-the-4th-highest-earning-movie-of-2018-182907">2018 year-end film '2.0'</a>, Rajinikanth is back on screens in his latest flick 'Petta' which releases this Friday.

The superstar plays a hostel warden in the film. In Tamil, the word 'Petta' means hood, or the area under one's control. The film is directed by Karthik Subbaraj who is an ardent Rajini fan himself. "Usually, I write my scripts first then think of the actors, or I have a reference of someone. This is the first time I wrote for a hero," Subbaraj said ahead of the release of the film.

Rajinikanth's last few films have not broken the box office records, as they are known to do, but the filmmaker said this was not something that he worried about.

"There was no worry. The makers are not worried. There is no effect of all that," he added.

<img alt="petta fan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1880b64d-2bb0-4c37-9849-13d5dc719192" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/petta-fan.jpg" />

(Fane queue up outside a theatre in Chennai to buy tickets for 'Petta'). (Pic: ANI)

Subbraj said the film is based on the relationship between the superstar's character and the students.

'Petta' is releasing at a time when a few theaters are still running '2.0', which was touted as India's most expensive film.

'Petta' is being released right ahead of the Pongal, an important festival in the Tamil calendar and coincides with Sankranti which is celebrated across India. Family audiences flock to theaters during Pongal holidays. Rajini being the phenomenon that he is, his films have a massive global reception, especially in the countries with large Indian diaspora.

But 'Petta' has some competition in the form of Ajith Kumar's 'Viswasam'. The two big ticket films will be battling it out at the box office. It is being said that 'Petta' will be a delight for Rajini fans. With the usual punchlines, style statements and gestures 'Petta' will bring back the classic Rajinikanth. Its trailer has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/watch-trailer-petta-looks-all-about-superstar-rajinikanths-swag-and-nawazuddin-siddiqui-186961">trademark Rajinikanth moments</a> - from the way he flips cigarettes to wearing his sunglasses.

Subbaraj said he consciously kept those whistle-worthy moments in the script. "I wanted to show his style on screen. I wanted to watch it on screen. I was not only a fan but a director too who was watching his idol performing. Every moment was great," he said.

The film also stars Simran, Trisha, Vijay Sethupathi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Bobby Simha and Sasikumar.

After enthralling fans by playing scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot in 2018 year-end film '2.0', Rajinikanth is back on screens in his latest flick 'Petta' which releases this Friday.

After enthralling fans by playing scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot in 2018 year-end film '2.0', Rajinikanth is back on screens in his latest flick 'Petta' which releases this Friday. The superstar plays a hostel warden in the film. In Tamil, the word 'Petta' means hood, or the area under one's control. The film is directed by Karthik Subbaraj who is an ardent Rajini fan himself. "Usually, I write my scripts first then think of the actors, or I have a reference of someone. This is the first time I wrote for a hero," Subbaraj said ahead of the release of the film. Rajinikanth's last few films have not broken the box office records, as they are known to do, but the filmmaker said this was not something that he worried about. "There was no worry. The makers are not worried. There is no effect of all that," he added. (Fane queue up outside a theatre in Chennai to buy tickets for 'Petta'). (Pic: ANI) Subbraj said the film is based on the relationship between the superstar's character and the students. 'Petta' is releasing at a time when a few theaters are still running '2.0', which was touted as India's most expensive film. 'Petta' is being released right ahead of the Pongal, an important festival in the Tamil calendar and coincides with Sankranti which is celebrated across India. Family audiences flock to theaters during Pongal holidays. Rajini being the phenomenon that he is, his films have a massive global reception, especially in the countries with large Indian diaspora. But 'Petta' has some competition in the form of Ajith Kumar's 'Viswasam'. The two big ticket films will be battling it out at the box office. It is being said that 'Petta' will be a delight for Rajini fans. With the usual punchlines, style statements and gestures 'Petta' will bring back the classic Rajinikanth. Its trailer has trademark Rajinikanth moments - from the way he flips cigarettes to wearing his sunglasses. Subbaraj said he consciously kept those whistle-worthy moments in the script. "I wanted to show his style on screen. I wanted to watch it on screen. I was not only a fan but a director too who was watching his idol performing. Every moment was great," he said. The film also stars Simran, Trisha, Vijay Sethupathi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Bobby Simha and Sasikumar.

Rajinikanth back to enthrall fans with 'Petta', his first release of 2019

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