<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-suicide-attack-outside-restaurant-multiple-casualties-24364">Kabul: 18 killed in suicide attack outside restaurant</a></p>

<p>At least eight policemen and 10 civilians were killed in a suicide attack that took place outside a restaurant in Kabul, security officials confirmed to Afghan channel Tolo News.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwes-mugabe-resisting-army-pressure-to-quit-intelligence-source-24361">Zimbabwe&#39;s Mugabe resisting army pressure to quit: Intelligence source</a></p>

<p>President Robert Mugabe is insisting he remains Zimbabwe&#39;s only legitimate ruler, an intelligence source said on Thursday, and is resisting mediation by a Catholic priest to allow the 93-year-old former guerrilla a graceful exit after a military coup.</p>

<p><br />
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lebanons-hariri-to-travel-to-paris-french-fm-24374">Hariri free to leave Riyadh &#39;when he pleases&#39;: Saudi FM</a></p>

<p>Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri is free to leave Riyadh &quot;when he pleases,&quot; the Saudi foreign minister said on Thursday, rejecting accusations from Beirut that the kingdom was &quot;detaining&quot; him.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-padmavati-row-now-karni-sena-threatens-to-chop-off-deepika-padukones-nose-if-the-film-releases-24367">Padmavati row: Karni Sena threatens to chop off Deepika Padukone&#39;s nose if film releases</a></p>

<p>Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena has made a video in which he states that &quot;Rajputs do not raise their hand on women but if need be, we will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha,&quot; ANI quoted him as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-return-donations-go-to-varanasi-if-people-want-kamal-haasan-24373">Will return donations, go to Varanasi if people want: Kamal Haasan</a></p>

<p>Actor Kamal Haasan, who recently launched an app as an interface between himself and his fans, said he has received donations and letters from his fans but clarified that he would return the money since it was &quot;illegal&quot;.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Kabul: 18 killed in suicide attack outside restaurant At least eight policemen and 10 civilians were killed in a suicide attack that took place outside a restaurant in Kabul, security officials confirmed to Afghan channel Tolo News. Zimbabwe's Mugabe resisting army pressure to quit: Intelligence source President Robert Mugabe is insisting he remains Zimbabwe's only legitimate ruler, an intelligence source said on Thursday, and is resisting mediation by a Catholic priest to allow the 93-year-old former guerrilla a graceful exit after a military coup. Hariri free to leave Riyadh 'when he pleases': Saudi FM Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri is free to leave Riyadh "when he pleases," the Saudi foreign minister said on Thursday, rejecting accusations from Beirut that the kingdom was "detaining" him. Padmavati row: Karni Sena threatens to chop off Deepika Padukone's nose if film releases Mahipal Singh Makrana of Rajput Karni Sena has made a video in which he states that "Rajputs do not raise their hand on women but if need be, we will do to Deepika what Lakshman did to Shurpanakha," ANI quoted him as saying. Will return donations, go to Varanasi if people want: Kamal Haasan Actor Kamal Haasan, who recently launched an app as an interface between himself and his fans, said he has received donations and letters from his fans but clarified that he would return the money since it was "illegal".

WION Evening News Brief, November 16, 2017

<p>Curtains were raised on the 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival today with the screening of Iranian film &#39;Yellow&#39;.</p>

<p>Altogether 143 films from India and abroad will be screened in the 8-day festival which was inaugurated at the packed Netaji Indoor Stadium.<br />
<br />
Megastars Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Kamal Haasan, besides British filmmaker Michael Winterbottom and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee were present at the inaugural function.<br />
<br />
The KIFF has become the landmark for showcasing best cinema across the world and he is happy to be back in a city which always holds special memories, Bachchan said.<br />
<br />
Bachchan, who delivered the main address on the inauguration, said the Rajesh Roshan composed &#39;<em>Chukar mere man ko</em>&#39; song which was shot in the same Netaji Indoor Stadium, the festival inauguration venue, for the film <em>Yaarana.</em><br />
<br />
Bengalis love music, from Tagore songs to Baul songs, he said described how Bengali culture had influenced the music in Hindi film industry for ages.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/srk1-20171111033817.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
<p>West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with actors Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kamal Haasan, Kajol and others during the inauguration of 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival in Kolkata on Friday. (PTI)</p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Acting legend Kamal Haasan said his heart swelled with pride to be considered family by the people of Kolkata.</p>

<p>&quot;Here film festival is not just a ritual, but it is a celebration, of what we love as part of our lives. We belong to an august crowd like you that celebrates cinema every year in this way,&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
Shah Rukh Khan said,&quot;It is a wonderful feeling to come back to Kolkata and be with all of you and a big round of applause for you all for making this successful.&quot;<br />
<br />
In her concluding speech, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the KIFF is the number one in the country in a number of terms.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/srk3-20171111034019.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
<p>West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with Shahrukh Khan during inauguration of 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival in Kolkata on Friday. (PTI)</p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>It is number one in terms of public participation, in terms of films screened in the festival venue and theatres across the city, in terms of the size of the screen where the inaugural film is shown, Banerjee said.<br />
<br />
To the light hearted request by Bachchan to spare him from inaugurating the next edition of festival, she asked, &quot;How can we organise the festival without Amitabh Bachchan?&quot;<br />
<br />
Film maker Mahesh Bhatt, actor Kajol, singer Kumar Sanu were also present on the stage along with a galaxy of Bengali film personalities including 23rd KIFF chairperson and veteran actor Sabitri Chatterjee.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Selfie time with two legends ..... couldn&rsquo;t resist ?? <a href="https://t.co/DaNmcckHe8">pic.twitter.com/DaNmcckHe8</a></p>
&mdash; Kajol (@KajolAtUN) <a href="https://twitter.com/KajolAtUN/status/928962910990323713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Iranian film maker Mostafa Taghizadeh&#39;s &#39;Yellow&#39; was screened at a very large screen at the indoor stadium after the inaugural programme.<br />
<br />
Delegates from more than 20 countries were attending the festival where 143 films from India and abroad will be screened between November 10 and 17.</p>


Curtains were raised on the 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival today with the screening of Iranian film 'Yellow'.

Curtains were raised on the 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival today with the screening of Iranian film 'Yellow'. Altogether 143 films from India and abroad will be screened in the 8-day festival which was inaugurated at the packed Netaji Indoor Stadium. Megastars Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Kamal Haasan, besides British filmmaker Michael Winterbottom and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee were present at the inaugural function. The KIFF has become the landmark for showcasing best cinema across the world and he is happy to be back in a city which always holds special memories, Bachchan said. Bachchan, who delivered the main address on the inauguration, said the Rajesh Roshan composed 'Chukar mere man ko' song which was shot in the same Netaji Indoor Stadium, the festival inauguration venue, for the film Yaarana. Bengalis love music, from Tagore songs to Baul songs, he said described how Bengali culture had influenced the music in Hindi film industry for ages. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with actors Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kamal Haasan, Kajol and others during the inauguration of 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival in Kolkata on Friday. (PTI) × Acting legend Kamal Haasan said his heart swelled with pride to be considered family by the people of Kolkata. "Here film festival is not just a ritual, but it is a celebration, of what we love as part of our lives. We belong to an august crowd like you that celebrates cinema every year in this way," he said. Shah Rukh Khan said,"It is a wonderful feeling to come back to Kolkata and be with all of you and a big round of applause for you all for making this successful." In her concluding speech, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the KIFF is the number one in the country in a number of terms. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with Shahrukh Khan during inauguration of 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival in Kolkata on Friday. (PTI) × It is number one in terms of public participation, in terms of films screened in the festival venue and theatres across the city, in terms of the size of the screen where the inaugural film is shown, Banerjee said. To the light hearted request by Bachchan to spare him from inaugurating the next edition of festival, she asked, "How can we organise the festival without Amitabh Bachchan?" Film maker Mahesh Bhatt, actor Kajol, singer Kumar Sanu were also present on the stage along with a galaxy of Bengali film personalities including 23rd KIFF chairperson and veteran actor Sabitri Chatterjee. Selfie time with two legends ..... couldn’t resist ?? pic.twitter.com/DaNmcckHe8 — Kajol (@KajolAtUN) November 10, 2017 × Iranian film maker Mostafa Taghizadeh's 'Yellow' was screened at a very large screen at the indoor stadium after the inaugural programme. Delegates from more than 20 countries were attending the festival where 143 films from India and abroad will be screened between November 10 and 17.

KIFF: Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, SRK, Kajol and bevy of stars attend inaugural function

<p>Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami today congratulated the people of Chennai for its inclusion in the list of UNESCO&#39;s Creative Cities Network for its rich musical tradition.</p>

<p>He also expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for hailing the city&#39;s inclusion in the list.</p>

<p>&quot;I am extremely happy to hear the news that United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation has included Chennai in the Creative Cities Network. I extend my sincere gratitude to UNESCO in this regard,&quot; he said in a release.</p>

<p>Stating that it was a proud moment, Palaniswami congratulated the people and the musicians of Chennai.</p>

<p>The chief minister also wrote to the Prime Minister thanking him for extending greetings on the city achieving the feat.</p>

<p>&quot;Congratulations to the people of Chennai on the city&#39;s inclusion in the @UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its rich musical tradition. Chennai&#39;s contribution to our rich culture is precious. This is a proud moment for India: PM,&quot; the Prime Minister&#39;s Office tweeted.</p>

<p>Palaniswami, in a letter to Modi, recalled that UNESCO in 2004 had formed &#39;Creative Cities Network&#39; to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity as a strategy for sustainable development.</p>

<p>For its creativity and contribution to music, Chennai was recently included as one among the 64 cities chosen worldwide, taking the total number of such cities in the network to 180, he said.</p>

<p>The people of Chennai love music and it is a &quot;part of their culture and tradition&quot;, he added.</p>

<p>&quot;On behalf of the people of Chennai and on my own behalf, I thank you very much for congratulating the people of Chennai for this unique distinction&quot;, Palaniswami said.</p>

<p>Popular Tamil film icon Kamal Haasan also extended his greetings.</p>

<p>&quot;The recognition &amp; praise for Chennai from @UNESCO for music fans of Chennai is long overdue. We prefer praise from others. Our Honourable PM recognizing it affirms our hope that south will not diminish inspite of its detractors,&quot; he posted on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>


Chennai has been included in UNESCO's Creative Cities Network for its musical tradition

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami today congratulated the people of Chennai for its inclusion in the list of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network for its rich musical tradition. He also expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for hailing the city's inclusion in the list. "I am extremely happy to hear the news that United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation has included Chennai in the Creative Cities Network. I extend my sincere gratitude to UNESCO in this regard," he said in a release. Stating that it was a proud moment, Palaniswami congratulated the people and the musicians of Chennai. The chief minister also wrote to the Prime Minister thanking him for extending greetings on the city achieving the feat. "Congratulations to the people of Chennai on the city's inclusion in the @UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its rich musical tradition. Chennai's contribution to our rich culture is precious. This is a proud moment for India: PM," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted. Palaniswami, in a letter to Modi, recalled that UNESCO in 2004 had formed 'Creative Cities Network' to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity as a strategy for sustainable development. For its creativity and contribution to music, Chennai was recently included as one among the 64 cities chosen worldwide, taking the total number of such cities in the network to 180, he said. The people of Chennai love music and it is a "part of their culture and tradition", he added. "On behalf of the people of Chennai and on my own behalf, I thank you very much for congratulating the people of Chennai for this unique distinction", Palaniswami said. Popular Tamil film icon Kamal Haasan also extended his greetings. "The recognition & praise for Chennai from @UNESCO for music fans of Chennai is long overdue. We prefer praise from others. Our Honourable PM recognizing it affirms our hope that south will not diminish inspite of its detractors," he posted on Twitter.

Tamil Nadu CM congratulates Chennai over UNESCO honour, thanks PM

<p>As superstar Kamal Haasan turned 63 on Tuesday, the actor launched a unique app for whistleblowers. While addressing the media during a press conference, the actor stated that the app was being launched keeping in mind the welfare of the people.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;This mobile app will be more of a platform for the public. The aim would be to reach out to people,&quot; the actor and added that he intended to tour across Tamil Nadu which currently receiving torrential rainfall which has flooded many parts of the state. The actor praised the work that was being done by the volunteers and stated that his tour dates would soon be announced.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
A few days back, the actor had confirmed that he would be joining politics soon. Speculations have been rife ever since then as to which party would the actor be joining or whether he would launch his own political party. &quot;Many speculating that today I will announce the political party. But I have to do a lot of groundwork before that. We have been sitting and analysing,&quot; the actor said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When he was asked if he would change his mind on politics later, the actor said, &quot;At this point question of going back doesn&#39;t arise.That is why I said groundwork being done. I&#39;m in no hurry to name my political party. I&#39;m carefully laying a strong foundation and preparing, learning now.&quot;</p>

<p>The actor said he needed time to get things in place. &quot;There is no tainted money that will come into my party. I am getting the party ready. So we are looking at a&nbsp;longer time. Give me time for my manifesto and my policy. I need to work on it.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;There is no tainted money that will come into my party. Am getting the party ready. So we are looking at longer time. Give me time for my manifesto and my policy,&quot; he said, adding, &quot;This meeting is to announce I have arrived in politics.&quot;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Looking at the larger goal, longer time, so have to make the party ready for it. Working on structural part: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KamalHaasan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KamalHaasan</a> <a href="https://t.co/vFHTF5VQHx">pic.twitter.com/vFHTF5VQHx</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/927813544208248832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I definitely don&#39;t want to hurt Hindu sentiments, as I myself belong to a Hindu family,but have taken a different path: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KamalHaasan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KamalHaasan</a> <a href="https://t.co/rFtkfXCRuY">pic.twitter.com/rFtkfXCRuY</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/927812313096142848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At this point question of going back doesn&#39;t arise.That is why I said groundwork being done:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KamalHaasan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KamalHaasan</a> on question of entering politics <a href="https://t.co/4xzLp2B1ud">pic.twitter.com/4xzLp2B1ud</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/927809864822165504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>The actor assured that he would finish all his pending work in cinema before his political plunge. &quot;I have films to finish it&#39;s a business commitment. I will give a demo of how our platform works. We will tell you all in detail. I am in no hurry. I have waited many years for change. I need support.&quot;</p>


The actor said he needed time to launch his political party.

As superstar Kamal Haasan turned 63 on Tuesday, the actor launched a unique app for whistleblowers. While addressing the media during a press conference, the actor stated that the app was being launched keeping in mind the welfare of the people. "This mobile app will be more of a platform for the public. The aim would be to reach out to people," the actor and added that he intended to tour across Tamil Nadu which currently receiving torrential rainfall which has flooded many parts of the state. The actor praised the work that was being done by the volunteers and stated that his tour dates would soon be announced. A few days back, the actor had confirmed that he would be joining politics soon. Speculations have been rife ever since then as to which party would the actor be joining or whether he would launch his own political party. "Many speculating that today I will announce the political party. But I have to do a lot of groundwork before that. We have been sitting and analysing," the actor said. When he was asked if he would change his mind on politics later, the actor said, "At this point question of going back doesn't arise.That is why I said groundwork being done. I'm in no hurry to name my political party. I'm carefully laying a strong foundation and preparing, learning now." The actor said he needed time to get things in place. "There is no tainted money that will come into my party. I am getting the party ready. So we are looking at a longer time. Give me time for my manifesto and my policy. I need to work on it." "There is no tainted money that will come into my party. Am getting the party ready. So we are looking at longer time. Give me time for my manifesto and my policy," he said, adding, "This meeting is to announce I have arrived in politics." Looking at the larger goal, longer time, so have to make the party ready for it. Working on structural part: #KamalHaasan pic.twitter.com/vFHTF5VQHx — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2017 × I definitely don't want to hurt Hindu sentiments, as I myself belong to a Hindu family,but have taken a different path: #KamalHaasan pic.twitter.com/rFtkfXCRuY — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2017 × At this point question of going back doesn't arise.That is why I said groundwork being done:#KamalHaasan on question of entering politics pic.twitter.com/4xzLp2B1ud — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2017 × The actor assured that he would finish all his pending work in cinema before his political plunge. "I have films to finish it's a business commitment. I will give a demo of how our platform works. We will tell you all in detail. I am in no hurry. I have waited many years for change. I need support."

Give me time for my manifesto, I have arrived in politics: Kamal Haasan

<p>As he turns 63 on November 7, Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan will be spending his day meeting those who have been affected by the Chennai floods. The actor has categorically stated that he will not be celebrating his birthday and instead meet people affected by the torrential rains in the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;This year he (Haasan) has decided not to celebrate his birthday while Chennai people are distressed by the rains. Instead, he will be visiting a medical camp, set up by his Narpani Iyakkam (welfare movement) at Avadi,&quot; the actor&#39;s spokesperson said on Monday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On Tuesday, the actor started the day early and visited a few medical camps. While addressing the people at a camp in Chennai, the actor said, &quot;There is no connection of this camp with politics but we could use this for that. People have been commenting that I am dreaming big. I want to tell them that it is a dream which ultimately gets materialised.&quot;&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ppl have been commenting that I am dreaming big. I want to tell them that it is dream which ultimately gets materialised: Kamal Haasan <a href="https://t.co/pjO3a5bNaK">pic.twitter.com/pjO3a5bNaK</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/927742205564878849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>The actor believes that the people of Tamil Nadu&nbsp;together can bring in change through amendments. The actor who is all set to take a plunge into politics has stated that his party will be working for the welfare of the people.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
While lauding the rescue efforts of the authorities in the flood-hit areas of Chennai, Haasan also stated that it was important to keep the medical camps disease-free. &quot;Govt arranging water outlets in waterlogged areas. It is equally important for medical camps to detect diseases before it becomes an epidemic.&quot;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We had dengue epidemic last time &amp; for various reasons pretended it is not there: Kamal Haasan at a medical camp in Chennai, Tamil Nadu</p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/927743873891278848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p><br />
The actor earlier on Twitter announced that he would not be celebrating his birthday this year.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To those who love me and dislike the idea of my cancelling my birthday celeberations <a href="https://t.co/hkSPJj97C9">pic.twitter.com/hkSPJj97C9</a></p>
&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/927600519102656512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Haasan will also be launching an app on his birthday which would be the first step towards his political debut. The app will enable him to be in touch with his fans and help in raising awareness about the issues at hand.&nbsp;</p>


Chennai and its surrounding districts were hit by severe rain recently

As he turns 63 on November 7, Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan will be spending his day meeting those who have been affected by the Chennai floods. The actor has categorically stated that he will not be celebrating his birthday and instead meet people affected by the torrential rains in the city. "This year he (Haasan) has decided not to celebrate his birthday while Chennai people are distressed by the rains. Instead, he will be visiting a medical camp, set up by his Narpani Iyakkam (welfare movement) at Avadi," the actor's spokesperson said on Monday. On Tuesday, the actor started the day early and visited a few medical camps. While addressing the people at a camp in Chennai, the actor said, "There is no connection of this camp with politics but we could use this for that. People have been commenting that I am dreaming big. I want to tell them that it is a dream which ultimately gets materialised." Ppl have been commenting that I am dreaming big. I want to tell them that it is dream which ultimately gets materialised: Kamal Haasan pic.twitter.com/pjO3a5bNaK — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2017 × The actor believes that the people of Tamil Nadu together can bring in change through amendments. The actor who is all set to take a plunge into politics has stated that his party will be working for the welfare of the people. While lauding the rescue efforts of the authorities in the flood-hit areas of Chennai, Haasan also stated that it was important to keep the medical camps disease-free. "Govt arranging water outlets in waterlogged areas. It is equally important for medical camps to detect diseases before it becomes an epidemic." We had dengue epidemic last time & for various reasons pretended it is not there: Kamal Haasan at a medical camp in Chennai, Tamil Nadu — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2017 × The actor earlier on Twitter announced that he would not be celebrating his birthday this year. To those who love me and dislike the idea of my cancelling my birthday celeberations pic.twitter.com/hkSPJj97C9 — Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) November 6, 2017 × Haasan will also be launching an app on his birthday which would be the first step towards his political debut. The app will enable him to be in touch with his fans and help in raising awareness about the issues at hand.

Kamal Haasan won't celebrate birthday today, will visit rain-hit areas in Chennai

<p>Superstar Kamal Haasan is all set to take a plunge into politics. First up, the actor will be launching the app of his political party on his birthday which falls on November 7. The actor announced his decision on 5th November that the app will help him stay connected to his fans as well as help him book-keeping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The actor was speaking at an event on Sunday where he confirmed that he would be joining politics soon and that the app was the first step towards it.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He said his fans would contribute funds for the political party and the mobile app will facilitate keeping proper accounts of funds collected.<br />
<br />
The actor further added that November 7 was not a day to cut cakes and celebrate but cut canals instead - referring to the flooding of several localities in the city due to recent rains.<br />
<br />
&#39;&#39;Natural disasters do not differentiate between rich and poor and all should be ready to take preventive measures than acting after the loss of dear ones,&quot; the actor was quoted as saying.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Criticising the current government, the actor said suppression has become part of politics and reminded fans that it is not important how many people are threatening you, but what is important is what you are going to do about it.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On November 2, Kamal Haasan had in his column in Tamil weekly &#39;<em>Ananda Vikatan</em>&#39; claimed that right-wing groups have taken to violence because their earlier &quot;strategy&quot; has stopped working.<br />
A day later, a Hindu outfit leader had stated that people like actor Kamal Hassan should be &quot;shot dead&quot;.&nbsp;</p>


Haasan said the first step to him joining politics would be to launch an app on his birthday, November 7

Superstar Kamal Haasan is all set to take a plunge into politics. First up, the actor will be launching the app of his political party on his birthday which falls on November 7. The actor announced his decision on 5th November that the app will help him stay connected to his fans as well as help him book-keeping. The actor was speaking at an event on Sunday where he confirmed that he would be joining politics soon and that the app was the first step towards it. He said his fans would contribute funds for the political party and the mobile app will facilitate keeping proper accounts of funds collected. The actor further added that November 7 was not a day to cut cakes and celebrate but cut canals instead - referring to the flooding of several localities in the city due to recent rains. ''Natural disasters do not differentiate between rich and poor and all should be ready to take preventive measures than acting after the loss of dear ones," the actor was quoted as saying. Criticising the current government, the actor said suppression has become part of politics and reminded fans that it is not important how many people are threatening you, but what is important is what you are going to do about it. On November 2, Kamal Haasan had in his column in Tamil weekly 'Ananda Vikatan' claimed that right-wing groups have taken to violence because their earlier "strategy" has stopped working. A day later, a Hindu outfit leader had stated that people like actor Kamal Hassan should be "shot dead".

Kamal Haasan says yes, he is joining politics

<p>A Varanasi court on Saturday adjourned the case filed against actor Kamal Haasan over his remark on Hindu terror till November 22.</p>

<p>The case was filed under section 500, 511, 298, 295(a) and 505(c) of IPC over the actor`s remark on Hindu terror in his column in Ananda Vikatan, a Tamil weekly.</p>

<p>Hassan, in his column, wrote, &quot;In the past, Hindu right-wing groups would not indulge in violence, but they would hold a dialogue with the opposite parties on their arguments. But this old tactic was defeated and what they stated to do is use muscle power. They started indulging in violence.&quot;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The right-wing cannot challenge talk of Hindu terrorists because terror has spread into their camp as well,&quot; wrote the Tamil film icon. Haasan`s remark drew flak from various quarters, especially the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)</p>


A Varanasi court on Saturday adjourned the case filed against actor Kamal Haasan over his remark on Hindu terror till November 22.

A Varanasi court on Saturday adjourned the case filed against actor Kamal Haasan over his remark on Hindu terror till November 22. The case was filed under section 500, 511, 298, 295(a) and 505(c) of IPC over the actor`s remark on Hindu terror in his column in Ananda Vikatan, a Tamil weekly. Hassan, in his column, wrote, "In the past, Hindu right-wing groups would not indulge in violence, but they would hold a dialogue with the opposite parties on their arguments. But this old tactic was defeated and what they stated to do is use muscle power. They started indulging in violence." The right-wing cannot challenge talk of Hindu terrorists because terror has spread into their camp as well," wrote the Tamil film icon. Haasan`s remark drew flak from various quarters, especially the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)

Court adjourns case against Kamal Haasan till Nov 22

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-leaves-for-asia-with-heavy-domestic-baggage-23482">Trump leaves for Asia with heavy domestic baggage</a></p>

<p>President Donald Trump departed Washington for an almost two week trip to Asia on Friday, during which he&nbsp;will meet China&rsquo;s Xi Jinping, Japan&rsquo;s Shinzo Abe and other Asian leaders.&nbsp;It is the longest presidential tour of Asia since George HW Bush visited in late 1991 and early 1992.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-inter-faith-marriages-arent-love-jihad-mukhtar-abbas-naqvi-to-wion-23473">All inter-faith marriages aren&rsquo;t love jihad, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi to WION</a></p>

<p>Speaking exclusively to WION, the Union minister says that the nationalism debate around Vande Mataram and Jan Gan Man are irrelevant.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-tmc-leader-mukul-roy-joins-bjp-23470">Former Trinamool Congress leader Mukul Roy joins BJP</a></p>

<p>Trinamool Congress had&nbsp;suspended Mukul Roy for six years after he&nbsp;announced his decision to quit the party amid reports that he was planning to join the BJP.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-haasan-booked-for-remarks-on-hindu-terror-23471">Defamation case against Kamal Haasan for &#39;Hindu terror&#39; remark</a></p>

<p>The Tamil icon had made the&nbsp;remark in his column in Ananda Vikatan, a Tamil weekly. The BJP and the RSS have sharply criticised the actor for saying&nbsp;&quot;The right wing cannot challenge talk of Hindu terrorists because terror has spread into their camp as well.&quot;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ozone-hole-shrinks-to-lowest-since-1998-report-23441">Ozone hole shrinks to lowest since 1998</a></p>

<p>Scientists say that the global efforts since the mid-1980s to ban the emission of ozone-depleting chemicals are the main reason for the ozone hole shrinking, a report in the Washington Post said.</p>


Trump leaves for Asia with heavy domestic baggage President Donald Trump departed Washington for an almost two week trip to Asia on Friday, during which he will meet China’s Xi Jinping, Japan’s Shinzo Abe and other Asian leaders. It is the longest presidential tour of Asia since George HW Bush visited in late 1991 and early 1992. All inter-faith marriages aren’t love jihad, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi to WION Speaking exclusively to WION, the Union minister says that the nationalism debate around Vande Mataram and Jan Gan Man are irrelevant. Former Trinamool Congress leader Mukul Roy joins BJP Trinamool Congress had suspended Mukul Roy for six years after he announced his decision to quit the party amid reports that he was planning to join the BJP. Defamation case against Kamal Haasan for 'Hindu terror' remark The Tamil icon had made the remark in his column in Ananda Vikatan, a Tamil weekly. The BJP and the RSS have sharply criticised the actor for saying "The right wing cannot challenge talk of Hindu terrorists because terror has spread into their camp as well." Ozone hole shrinks to lowest since 1998 Scientists say that the global efforts since the mid-1980s to ban the emission of ozone-depleting chemicals are the main reason for the ozone hole shrinking, a report in the Washington Post said.

WION Morning News Brief November 4, 2017

<p>A defamation case was filed on Friday against actor Kamal Haasan for his remarks that terror had spread into the camp of right wing Hindu groups.</p>

<p>The Hindu matter will be heard on Saturday, ANI reported.</p>

<p>The case has been filed against the Tamil icon under section 500, 511, 298, 295(a) and 505(c) of IPC for the remarks in his column in Ananda Vikatan, a Tamil weekly.</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan had written, &quot;In the past, Hindu right-wing groups would not indulge in violence, but they would hold a dialogue with the opposite parties on their arguments. But this old tactic was defeated and what they stated to do is use muscle power. They started indulging in violence.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;The right wing cannot challenge talk of Hindu terrorists because terror has spread into their camp as well,&quot; wrote the Tamil film icon.</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan made the remarks in response to a question by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan about the attempts made by Hindutva forces to make inroads in Tamil Nadu.</p>

<p>The actor&#39;s remarks drew criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).&nbsp;</p>

<p>BJP leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cant-say-there-is-no-hindu-terrorism-kamal-haasan-23348">Vinay Katiyar called the actor &quot;mentally unstable&quot;</a>.</p>

<p>BJP leader Vinay Katiyar said, &quot;His mental state is unstable. He should be getting treated in a hospital. Politics of such defamatory nature is not okay. He doesn&#39;t have any proof.&quot;</p>

<p>BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao compared the actor to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan has repeatedly hinted that he will soon take the political plunge and had said earlier this month that he would take advice from other politicians before deciding to join politics.</p>

<p>He has ruled out joining the BJP.</p>

<p>On September 1, the actor had met Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan over lunch at his official residence in Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked by reporters if they had discussed politics, Kamal Haasan replied, &quot;For sure&quot;. He had added that he was taking advice from the Kerala chief minister and dubbed his visit &quot;political tourism&quot;.</p>

<p>Asked whether he would join the Left, he said, &quot;My colour is obviously seen over the 40 years I have been working in cinema, definitely it&#39;s not saffron.&quot;</p>

<p>The Tamil megastar, who has taken on the ruling AIADMK government for alleged corruption, shared the stage with DMK leaders at a party event in August. Legendary Tamil actor Rajinikanth was also present at the event, sparking rumours that the two leaders were planning to take the plunge in politics.</p>

<p>In October, Kamal Haasan was invited to an event in which Rajinikanth was a speaker.&nbsp;Rajnikanth said when he asked Kamal Haasan how to be successful in politics, the actor&nbsp;replied: &quot;Come along with me, then I will tell you.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A defamation case was filed on Friday against actor Kamal Haasan for his remarks that terror had spread into the camp of right wing Hindu groups

A defamation case was filed on Friday against actor Kamal Haasan for his remarks that terror had spread into the camp of right wing Hindu groups. The Hindu matter will be heard on Saturday, ANI reported. The case has been filed against the Tamil icon under section 500, 511, 298, 295(a) and 505(c) of IPC for the remarks in his column in Ananda Vikatan, a Tamil weekly. Kamal Haasan had written, "In the past, Hindu right-wing groups would not indulge in violence, but they would hold a dialogue with the opposite parties on their arguments. But this old tactic was defeated and what they stated to do is use muscle power. They started indulging in violence." "The right wing cannot challenge talk of Hindu terrorists because terror has spread into their camp as well," wrote the Tamil film icon. Kamal Haasan made the remarks in response to a question by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan about the attempts made by Hindutva forces to make inroads in Tamil Nadu. The actor's remarks drew criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). BJP leader Vinay Katiyar called the actor "mentally unstable". BJP leader Vinay Katiyar said, "His mental state is unstable. He should be getting treated in a hospital. Politics of such defamatory nature is not okay. He doesn't have any proof." BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao compared the actor to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed. Kamal Haasan has repeatedly hinted that he will soon take the political plunge and had said earlier this month that he would take advice from other politicians before deciding to join politics. He has ruled out joining the BJP. On September 1, the actor had met Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan over lunch at his official residence in Thiruvananthapuram. Asked by reporters if they had discussed politics, Kamal Haasan replied, "For sure". He had added that he was taking advice from the Kerala chief minister and dubbed his visit "political tourism". Asked whether he would join the Left, he said, "My colour is obviously seen over the 40 years I have been working in cinema, definitely it's not saffron." The Tamil megastar, who has taken on the ruling AIADMK government for alleged corruption, shared the stage with DMK leaders at a party event in August. Legendary Tamil actor Rajinikanth was also present at the event, sparking rumours that the two leaders were planning to take the plunge in politics. In October, Kamal Haasan was invited to an event in which Rajinikanth was a speaker. Rajnikanth said when he asked Kamal Haasan how to be successful in politics, the actor replied: "Come along with me, then I will tell you."

Defamation case against Kamal Haasan for remarks on 'Hindu terror'

<p>Reacting to&nbsp;Kamal Haasan&#39;s remark on Hindu terrorists, a BJP leader took a dig at him by calling him &quot;mentally unstable&quot;.<br />
<br />
BJP leader Vinay Katiyar&nbsp;said, &quot;His mental state is unstable. He should be getting treated in a hospital. Politics of such defamatory nature is not okay. He doesn&#39;t have any proof.&quot;</p>

<p>Katiyar also hinted at&nbsp;filing a defamation case against&nbsp;the actor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said that Haasan should apologise for his statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a piece in Tamil magazine Vikatan, the Tamil superstar has stated that Hindu extremists earlier held dialogues but now indulge in violence. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;In the past Hindu right-wing groups would not indulge in violence, but they used to hold dialogues with the opposition parties to win arguments. But these old tactics have&nbsp;been forgotten and now replaced with &#39;muscle power&#39;. They have started indulging in violence. Right wing can&#39;t challenge anyone asking the question -- Show me, one Hindu terrorist? Terror has spread into their camp as well,&#39;&#39; the actor has written in the Tamil magazine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such terror activities are not going to help them in any which ways...truth alone triumphs, Tamil superstar added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about social justice, the actor said Kerala &#39;&#39;shows the way&#39;&#39; in the social justice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&#39;&#39;TN will become an example for social justice once again. As of now, Kerala shows the way. Congratulations,&quot; the actor wrote.</p>


BJP leader Vinay Katiyar?said 'His mental state is unstable.He should be getting treated in a hospital. Politics of such defamatory nature is not okay. He doesn't have any proof'

Reacting to Kamal Haasan's remark on Hindu terrorists, a BJP leader took a dig at him by calling him "mentally unstable". BJP leader Vinay Katiyar said, "His mental state is unstable. He should be getting treated in a hospital. Politics of such defamatory nature is not okay. He doesn't have any proof." Katiyar also hinted at filing a defamation case against the actor. He further said that Haasan should apologise for his statement. In a piece in Tamil magazine Vikatan, the Tamil superstar has stated that Hindu extremists earlier held dialogues but now indulge in violence. "In the past Hindu right-wing groups would not indulge in violence, but they used to hold dialogues with the opposition parties to win arguments. But these old tactics have been forgotten and now replaced with 'muscle power'. They have started indulging in violence. Right wing can't challenge anyone asking the question -- Show me, one Hindu terrorist? Terror has spread into their camp as well,'' the actor has written in the Tamil magazine. Such terror activities are not going to help them in any which ways...truth alone triumphs, Tamil superstar added. Speaking about social justice, the actor said Kerala ''shows the way'' in the social justice. ''TN will become an example for social justice once again. As of now, Kerala shows the way. Congratulations," the actor wrote.

Kamal Haasan is 'mentally unstable': BJP leader

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/absence-of-consensus-on-designating-masood-azhar-a-global-terrorist-china-23386" target="_blank">&#39;Absence of consensus&#39; on designating Masood Azhar a global terrorist: China</a></p>

<p>China&#39;s foreign ministry said today there was &quot;absence of consensus&quot; to declare Pak-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, a move which is being pushed by India at the UN.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cant-say-there-is-no-hindu-terrorism-kamal-haasan-23348">Kamal Haasan is &#39;mentally unstable&#39;: BJP leader</a></p>

<p>BJP leader Vinay Katiyar said Kamal Haasan is mentally unstable after the actor said Hindu right-wing groups indulge in muscle power.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-reaches-ntpc-plant-raebareli-demands-strict-punishment-for-people-responsible-23370" target="_blank">Rahul Gandhi visits NTPC plant, demands investigation in boiler explosion</a></p>

<p>Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi visited the NTPC plant in Rae Bareli today after a boiler had exploded in the plant yesterday killing 26 people and leaving several injured.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ntpc-explosion-rs-20-lakh-additional-compensation-for-family-of-those-killed-23381" target="_blank">NTPC explosion: Rs 20 Lakh additional compensation for family of those killed</a></p>

<p>Power Minister R K Singh has announced additional compensation of Rs 20 Lakh ex-gratia for the families of those who were killed in NTPC&rsquo;s power plant explosion on Wednesday in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Rae Bareli district.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-meets-kerala-chief-minister-pinarayi-vijayan-invites-him-for-isl-match-23378">Sachin Tendulkar meets Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, invites him for ISL match</a></p>

<p>Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar today met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to invite him for the Indian Super League (ISL) football tournament. Tendulkar co-owns Kerala Blasters, a franchise in ISL.</p>


'Absence of consensus' on designating Masood Azhar a global terrorist: China China's foreign ministry said today there was "absence of consensus" to declare Pak-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, a move which is being pushed by India at the UN. Kamal Haasan is 'mentally unstable': BJP leader BJP leader Vinay Katiyar said Kamal Haasan is mentally unstable after the actor said Hindu right-wing groups indulge in muscle power. Rahul Gandhi visits NTPC plant, demands investigation in boiler explosion Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi visited the NTPC plant in Rae Bareli today after a boiler had exploded in the plant yesterday killing 26 people and leaving several injured. NTPC explosion: Rs 20 Lakh additional compensation for family of those killed Power Minister R K Singh has announced additional compensation of Rs 20 Lakh ex-gratia for the families of those who were killed in NTPC’s power plant explosion on Wednesday in Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli district. Sachin Tendulkar meets Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, invites him for ISL match Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar today met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to invite him for the Indian Super League (ISL) football tournament. Tendulkar co-owns Kerala Blasters, a franchise in ISL.

WION Evening news brief, Nov 2, 2017

<p>In a rather cryptic tweet, superstar Rajnikanth lauded the effort of &#39;Mersal&#39; crew and said that the movie has addressed an &#39;important topic&#39;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though it was not clear what does Superstar infer by &#39;important topic&#39;, the Tamil superhit starring Vijay was recently mired in controversy after release when Tamil Nadu BJP unit took reservations to some of the dialogues in it especially one alluding to &nbsp;Goods and Service Tax.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJP leaders wanted to makers of the movie to erase some of the dialogues from the movie to which initially the producer agreed only to back off later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Important topic addressed... Well done !!! Congratulations team <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mersal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mersal</a></p>
&mdash; Rajinikanth (@superstarrajini) <a href="https://twitter.com/superstarrajini/status/922144733954215936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several actors and politicians have expressed their support for the producers of the movie and condemned the BJP&#39;s effort to curb &#39;freedom of expression&#39;. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Actor Kamal Haasan tweeted &#39;Mersal&#39; was certified. Don&#39;t re-censor it. Counter criticism with the logical response. Don&#39;t silence critics. India will shine when it speaks.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mersal was certified. Dont re-censor it . Counter criticism with logical response. Dont silence critics. India will shine when it speaks.</p>
&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/921407079859892224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile five days after its release, the film crossed 150 crores worldwide, according to its producers.</p>


The BJP leaders wanted to makers of the movie to erase some of the dialogues from the movie to which initially the producer agreed only to back off later.

In a rather cryptic tweet, superstar Rajnikanth lauded the effort of 'Mersal' crew and said that the movie has addressed an 'important topic'. Though it was not clear what does Superstar infer by 'important topic', the Tamil superhit starring Vijay was recently mired in controversy after release when Tamil Nadu BJP unit took reservations to some of the dialogues in it especially one alluding to Goods and Service Tax. The BJP leaders wanted to makers of the movie to erase some of the dialogues from the movie to which initially the producer agreed only to back off later. Important topic addressed... Well done !!! Congratulations team #Mersal — Rajinikanth (@superstarrajini) October 22, 2017 × Several actors and politicians have expressed their support for the producers of the movie and condemned the BJP's effort to curb 'freedom of expression'. Actor Kamal Haasan tweeted 'Mersal' was certified. Don't re-censor it. Counter criticism with the logical response. Don't silence critics. India will shine when it speaks. Mersal was certified. Dont re-censor it . Counter criticism with logical response. Dont silence critics. India will shine when it speaks. — Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) October 20, 2017 × Meanwhile five days after its release, the film crossed 150 crores worldwide, according to its producers.

Rajinikanth expresses support for 'Mersal' through Twitter

<p>The actor Kamal Haasan has apologised for supporting demonetisation &quot;in a hurry&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The apology came in the form of an article in the Tamil magazine Ananda Vikatan, India Today reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The article was headlined &quot;A big apology&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In it, Haasan wrote, &nbsp;&quot;I owe it to the people to apologise for supporting the plan in a hurry.&quot;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haasan had, back when demonetisation was announced on November 8, 2016, tweeted in support of the move.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>Haasan wrote that the sign of a good leader is that he or she can accept his or her mistake.&nbsp;And that &#39;If the Prime Minister accepts his mistake without being adamant, one more salaam is waiting for him from me&#39;</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Haasan wrote that the sign of a good leader is that he or she can accept his or her mistake.?And that 'If the Prime Minister accepts his mistake without being adamant, one more salaam is waiting for him from me'" target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>In his article, he wrote that he had thought it would rid the country of black money, and that people should put up with the little inconveniences that might arise from the move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Many of my comrades and some people who understand economics called me and criticised me for my views. Later I consoled myself, saying that while the plan was good, there may have been some problems with implementation,&quot; India Today reported him as writing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haasan added that when more economists spoke out against demonetisation, he told himself the intention may have been good but that the plan itself was not practical.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then, said Haasan, with even more critics opposing demonetisation, he was filled with doubt since the government seemed to have no answer to the criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haasan then said the sign of a good leader is that he or she can accept his or her mistake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Gandhi was able to do it, today also it is possible,&quot;&nbsp;India Today reported the actor as writing. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>And that &quot;If the Prime Minister accepts his mistake without being adamant, one more salaam is waiting for him from me.&quot;</p>


The apology came in the form of an article in the Tamil magazine Ananda Vikatan

The actor Kamal Haasan has apologised for supporting demonetisation "in a hurry". The apology came in the form of an article in the Tamil magazine Ananda Vikatan, India Today reported. The article was headlined "A big apology". In it, Haasan wrote, "I owe it to the people to apologise for supporting the plan in a hurry." Haasan had, back when demonetisation was announced on November 8, 2016, tweeted in support of the move. Haasan wrote that the sign of a good leader is that he or she can accept his or her mistake. And that 'If the Prime Minister accepts his mistake without being adamant, one more salaam is waiting for him from me' × In his article, he wrote that he had thought it would rid the country of black money, and that people should put up with the little inconveniences that might arise from the move. "Many of my comrades and some people who understand economics called me and criticised me for my views. Later I consoled myself, saying that while the plan was good, there may have been some problems with implementation," India Today reported him as writing. Haasan added that when more economists spoke out against demonetisation, he told himself the intention may have been good but that the plan itself was not practical. Then, said Haasan, with even more critics opposing demonetisation, he was filled with doubt since the government seemed to have no answer to the criticism. Haasan then said the sign of a good leader is that he or she can accept his or her mistake. "Gandhi was able to do it, today also it is possible," India Today reported the actor as writing. And that "If the Prime Minister accepts his mistake without being adamant, one more salaam is waiting for him from me."

Kamal Haasan apologises for supporting demonetisation 'in a hurry'

<p>The superstar Rajinikanth, who has been flirting with the idea of joining politics for some time now, said Sunday that mere name, fame, and money were not enough to succeed in politics and that &quot;something else is needed&quot;.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you have to succeed in politics, merely name, fame and money are not enough. It is something else that is needed: Rajinikanth in Chennai <a href="https://t.co/6Hm1rU5rds">pic.twitter.com/6Hm1rU5rds</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/914371984020131843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Rajinikanth was speaking at the Sivaji Ganeshan Memorial event in Chennai.</p>

<p>The event was attended by actor Kamal Haasan and Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When asked Kamal Hassan how to be successful (in politics), he said, &#39;Come along with me, then I will tell you.&#39; : Rajinikanth in Chennai <a href="https://t.co/3NmlK1Yeit">pic.twitter.com/3NmlK1Yeit</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/914379763791282181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Rajnikanth added that when he asked Haasan how to be successful in politics, Hassan replied: &quot;Come along with me, then I will tell you.&quot;</p>

<p>Haasan too has hinted that he might be joining politics.</p>

<p>He recently met with Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-meets-kamal-haasan-in-chennai-20478" target="_blank">WATCH: He should enter politics, says Kejriwal after meeting Kamal Haasan in Chennai</a></p>

<p>The death of former chief minister Jayalalithaa and the ensuing infighting within the AIADMK has left a massive vacuum in the state, with commentators saying this would be the right time for the filmstars to enter politics in a state that has always been partial to actors-turned-politicians.</p>


Both Rajnikanth and Haasan have been flirting with the idea of joining politics for some time now

The superstar Rajinikanth, who has been flirting with the idea of joining politics for some time now, said Sunday that mere name, fame, and money were not enough to succeed in politics and that "something else is needed". If you have to succeed in politics, merely name, fame and money are not enough. It is something else that is needed: Rajinikanth in Chennai pic.twitter.com/6Hm1rU5rds — ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2017 × Rajinikanth was speaking at the Sivaji Ganeshan Memorial event in Chennai. The event was attended by actor Kamal Haasan and Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam. When asked Kamal Hassan how to be successful (in politics), he said, 'Come along with me, then I will tell you.' : Rajinikanth in Chennai pic.twitter.com/3NmlK1Yeit — ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2017 × Rajnikanth added that when he asked Haasan how to be successful in politics, Hassan replied: "Come along with me, then I will tell you." Haasan too has hinted that he might be joining politics. He recently met with Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in Chennai. WATCH: He should enter politics, says Kejriwal after meeting Kamal Haasan in Chennai The death of former chief minister Jayalalithaa and the ensuing infighting within the AIADMK has left a massive vacuum in the state, with commentators saying this would be the right time for the filmstars to enter politics in a state that has always been partial to actors-turned-politicians.

Rajinikanth: Asked Kamal Haasan how to succeed in politics, he said 'Come along with me'

<p>Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday met Tamil megastar Kamal Haasan at his residence in Chennai.</p>

<p>Kamal&nbsp;Haasan, 62, said that many issues including corruption were discussed during the meeting. He also lauded Arvind Kejriwal for his fight against communalism and corruption, PTI reported.</p>

<p>&quot;I am very happy that he (Arvind Kejriwal) is here, have discussed issues including corruption,&quot; Kamal Haasan said.</p>

<p>Arvind Kejriwal was equally happy at the outcome of the meeting and said Kamal Haasan should enter politics.</p>

<p>&quot;Had an excellent meeting, we exchanged our ideas on the situation in the country and Tamil Nadu. He (Kamal Haasan) should enter into politics,&quot; the AAP chief said.</p>

<p>&quot;We will continue to discuss and meet each other in future also,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>On Twitter,&nbsp;AAP posted images of the two leaders exchanging pleasantries.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">AAP National Convenor and Delhi CM <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal">@ArvindKejriwal</a> meets <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan">@ikamalhaasan</a> one of the biggest personality of South India. <a href="https://t.co/YD9DwuFxWk">pic.twitter.com/YD9DwuFxWk</a></p>
&mdash; AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/910791809025974273">September 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></center>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Arvind Kejriwal was received by Kamal Haasan&#39;s youngest daughter Akshara at the airport.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Tamil Nadu: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal received by Kamal Haasan&#39;s daughter Akshara Haasan in Chennai. <a href="https://t.co/hgUDcsIFSc">pic.twitter.com/hgUDcsIFSc</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/910780702727168000">September 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></center>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>(Also Read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/alliance-arvind-kejriwal-to-meet-kamal-haasan-today-20459"> Alliance? Arvind Kejriwal to meet Kamal Haasan today</a>)</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Tamil Nadu: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal meets Kamal Haasan at his residence in Chennai. <a href="https://t.co/VfR4jkNpj5">pic.twitter.com/VfR4jkNpj5</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/910790501019688962">September 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></center>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan,&nbsp;62, is expected to launch his political party by the end of the month with an eye on local body elections expected in Tamil Nadu in November.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The Indian Express had earlier quoted an AAP source as saying that the Kamal Haasan and Arvind Kejriwal are likely to &quot;exchange notes over the problems faced within the country and how best to tackle them&quot; ahead of the Tamil Nadu elections.</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan has repeatedly hinted that he will soon take the political plunge and had said earlier this month that he would take advice from other politicians before deciding to join politics.</p>

<p>He has ruled out joining the BJP.</p>

<p>On September 1, the actor had met Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan over lunch at his official residence in Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked by reporters if they had discussed politics, Kamal Haasan replied, &quot;For sure&quot;. He had added that he was taking advice from the Kerala chief minister and dubbed his visit &quot;political tourism&quot;.</p>

<p>Asked whether he would join the Left, Kamal Haasan&nbsp;had said he did not want to lean on any side.</p>

<p>Asked whether he would join the Left, he said, &quot;My colour is obviously seen over the 40 years I have been working in cinema, definitely it&#39;s not saffron.&quot;</p>

<p>The Tamil megastar, who has taken on the ruling AIADMK government for alleged corruption, shared the stage with DMK leaders at a party event in August. Legendary Tamil actor Rajinikanth was also present at the event, sparking rumours that the two leaders were planning to take the plunge in politics.</p>


Ahead of the Tamil Nadu elections, Kamal Haasan and Arvind Kejriwal are likely to 'exchange of notes over the problems faced within the country and how best to tackle them,' a media report quoted a source as saying

Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday met Tamil megastar Kamal Haasan at his residence in Chennai. Kamal Haasan, 62, said that many issues including corruption were discussed during the meeting. He also lauded Arvind Kejriwal for his fight against communalism and corruption, PTI reported. "I am very happy that he (Arvind Kejriwal) is here, have discussed issues including corruption," Kamal Haasan said. Arvind Kejriwal was equally happy at the outcome of the meeting and said Kamal Haasan should enter politics. "Had an excellent meeting, we exchanged our ideas on the situation in the country and Tamil Nadu. He (Kamal Haasan) should enter into politics," the AAP chief said. "We will continue to discuss and meet each other in future also," he added. On Twitter, AAP posted images of the two leaders exchanging pleasantries. AAP National Convenor and Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal meets @ikamalhaasan one of the biggest personality of South India. pic.twitter.com/YD9DwuFxWk — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) September 21, 2017 × Arvind Kejriwal was received by Kamal Haasan's youngest daughter Akshara at the airport. Tamil Nadu: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal received by Kamal Haasan's daughter Akshara Haasan in Chennai. pic.twitter.com/hgUDcsIFSc — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2017 × (Also Read: Alliance? Arvind Kejriwal to meet Kamal Haasan today) Tamil Nadu: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal meets Kamal Haasan at his residence in Chennai. pic.twitter.com/VfR4jkNpj5 — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2017 × Kamal Haasan, 62, is expected to launch his political party by the end of the month with an eye on local body elections expected in Tamil Nadu in November. The Indian Express had earlier quoted an AAP source as saying that the Kamal Haasan and Arvind Kejriwal are likely to "exchange notes over the problems faced within the country and how best to tackle them" ahead of the Tamil Nadu elections. Kamal Haasan has repeatedly hinted that he will soon take the political plunge and had said earlier this month that he would take advice from other politicians before deciding to join politics. He has ruled out joining the BJP. On September 1, the actor had met Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan over lunch at his official residence in Thiruvananthapuram. Asked by reporters if they had discussed politics, Kamal Haasan replied, "For sure". He had added that he was taking advice from the Kerala chief minister and dubbed his visit "political tourism". Asked whether he would join the Left, Kamal Haasan had said he did not want to lean on any side. Asked whether he would join the Left, he said, "My colour is obviously seen over the 40 years I have been working in cinema, definitely it's not saffron." The Tamil megastar, who has taken on the ruling AIADMK government for alleged corruption, shared the stage with DMK leaders at a party event in August. Legendary Tamil actor Rajinikanth was also present at the event, sparking rumours that the two leaders were planning to take the plunge in politics.

WATCH: He should enter politics, says Kejriwal after meeting Kamal Haasan in Chennai

<p>Veteran actor Kamal Haasan, whose entry into <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rajinikanth-kamal-haasan-attend-dmk-event-spark-rumours-of-joining-politics-18844">politics has been a matter of speculation</a>, has made clear his intentions of forming a political party.</p>

<p>The actor, while speaking at a public event Friday, said that he would join hands with superstar Rajinikanth if the latter ever decides to enter politics.</p>

<p>&quot;Let a signal come from here(people). Let him (Rajinikanth) join first. We will talk. Politics for me is joining hands with you. Why wouldn&#39;t I join hands with him? In the field, we discuss everything with each other. You think we won&#39;t discuss this? Or do you think we will tell you all that we discuss?&quot;</p>

<p>In a recent interview to <em>The Quint</em>, Kamal Haasan said that no political party can offer him the platform that matches his reformatory goals in politics.</p>

<p>In the same interview, he hinted that he will launch a political party.</p>

<p>On the question of ideology, Haasan said that one should take the good part from all the ideologies - Gandhian, Marxism, Periyar - and avoid the bad.</p>

<p>The actor&#39;s recent meeting with Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan gave rise to speculation that the actor might join CPI (M).</p>

<p>But he rubbished the speculation doing the rounds in media saying it isn&#39;t imperative that he would join a political party merely because he is meeting a leader from that party.</p>


The actor said that he would join hands with superstar Rajinikanth if the latter ever decides to enter politics

Veteran actor Kamal Haasan, whose entry into politics has been a matter of speculation, has made clear his intentions of forming a political party. The actor, while speaking at a public event Friday, said that he would join hands with superstar Rajinikanth if the latter ever decides to enter politics. "Let a signal come from here(people). Let him (Rajinikanth) join first. We will talk. Politics for me is joining hands with you. Why wouldn't I join hands with him? In the field, we discuss everything with each other. You think we won't discuss this? Or do you think we will tell you all that we discuss?" In a recent interview to The Quint, Kamal Haasan said that no political party can offer him the platform that matches his reformatory goals in politics. In the same interview, he hinted that he will launch a political party. On the question of ideology, Haasan said that one should take the good part from all the ideologies - Gandhian, Marxism, Periyar - and avoid the bad. The actor's recent meeting with Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan gave rise to speculation that the actor might join CPI (M). But he rubbished the speculation doing the rounds in media saying it isn't imperative that he would join a political party merely because he is meeting a leader from that party.

Kamal Haasan's entry into politics: Not whether, but when

<p>In his strongest-ever hint that he would be joining politics, actor Kamal Hassan said on Thursday that he was seeking Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan&#39;s advice and would meet more politicians before deciding on a career in politics.</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan met Pinarayi Vijayan over lunch at his official residence in Thiruvananthapuram.</p>

<p>Asked by reporters if they had discussed politics, Kamal Haasan replied, &quot;For sure&quot;.</p>

<p>On his political plans, Kamal Haasan said, &quot;Have been talking to the Kerala chief minister about it, taking advice, will meet more politicians before I take my call.&quot;</p>

<p>Asked whether he would join the Left, Kamal Haasan, 62, said he did not want to lean on any side.</p>

<p>Asked whether he would join the Left, he said, &quot;My colour is obviously seen over the 40 years I have been working in cinema, definitely it&#39;s not saffron.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;I want to be in the middle of things, not leaning to any side,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>The chief minister&#39;s office termed the visit as a &quot;friendly&quot; one.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Kamal Haasan met Pinarayi Vijayan over lunch at his official residence in Thiruvananthapuram

In his strongest-ever hint that he would be joining politics, actor Kamal Hassan said on Thursday that he was seeking Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's advice and would meet more politicians before deciding on a career in politics. Kamal Haasan met Pinarayi Vijayan over lunch at his official residence in Thiruvananthapuram. Asked by reporters if they had discussed politics, Kamal Haasan replied, "For sure". On his political plans, Kamal Haasan said, "Have been talking to the Kerala chief minister about it, taking advice, will meet more politicians before I take my call." Asked whether he would join the Left, Kamal Haasan, 62, said he did not want to lean on any side. Asked whether he would join the Left, he said, "My colour is obviously seen over the 40 years I have been working in cinema, definitely it's not saffron." "I want to be in the middle of things, not leaning to any side," he added. The chief minister's office termed the visit as a "friendly" one.

Taking advice from Kerala chief minister: Kamal Haasan on joining politics

<p>Famous Tamil superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan once again sparked rumours of their political ambitions after they graced a DMK event on Thursday (August 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both the actors, who have a huge fan following in Tamil Nadu, attended an event to mark 75 years of the founding of DMK mouthpiece &quot;Murasoli.&quot;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Tamil Nadu: MK Stalin, Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth at the 75th anniversary celebrations of DMK&#39;s mouthpiece Murasoli, in Chennai. <a href="https://t.co/W0IGfR0f3A">pic.twitter.com/W0IGfR0f3A</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/895644117962706945">August 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></center>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan, who has taken on the ruling AIADMK government for alleged corruption, shared the stage with DMK leaders. Rajinikanth was seated among the audience in the front row. &nbsp;Asked whether he was joining politics, Kamal Haasan said that in 1983, DMK chief Karunanidhi sent him a telegram asking him to join the party and that he had not been able to give him an answer till now.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tamil Nadu: Rajinikanth at the 75th anniversary celebrations of DMK&#39;s mouthpiece Murasoli, in Chennai. <a href="https://t.co/SPn3g6hsZW">pic.twitter.com/SPn3g6hsZW</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/895617323599446018">August 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></center>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan sat next to DMK Working President MK Stalin, who had backed him after a strident attack by Tamil Nadu Ministers for being critical of the government, and other senior party leaders.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<center><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="645" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRBSIRAJINI%2Fposts%2F1516192638424170&amp;width=500" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" width="500"></iframe></center>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The participation of the two stars at the DMK event assumes significance in view of their recent statements suggesting that they could be joining politics.</p>

<p>Other celebrities who attended the celebrations included former cricket board chief, industrialist N Srinivasan and actor Prabhu, son of late actor Sivaji Ganesan.</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan has taken on the ruling AIADMK (Amma) government over alleged corruption. Several state ministers had attacked the actor after he asked his followers to use social media to lodge graft complaints, and questioned the contribution of his fan clubs to the welfare of the people of the state.</p>

<p>Chief Minister K Palaniswami had challenged him to join politics.</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu politics has been dominated by the two Dravidian parties - the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) - since 1956.</p>

<p>Their top leaders have been closely associated with the film industry.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="videos-block">
<div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WQo0MEhH_Cc"></iframe></div>
</div>

<div class="media-description">
<p>Actor Kamal Haasan, who has taken on the Tamil Nadu government on corruption issue, on Thursday shared the dais with opposition DMK leaders at a party event in Chennai. Superstar Rajinikanth chose to sit among the audience (WION)</p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The participation of the two actors at the DMK event assumes significance in view of their recent statements suggesting that they could be joining politics

Famous Tamil superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan once again sparked rumours of their political ambitions after they graced a DMK event on Thursday (August 10). Both the actors, who have a huge fan following in Tamil Nadu, attended an event to mark 75 years of the founding of DMK mouthpiece "Murasoli." Tamil Nadu: MK Stalin, Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth at the 75th anniversary celebrations of DMK's mouthpiece Murasoli, in Chennai. pic.twitter.com/W0IGfR0f3A — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2017 × Kamal Haasan, who has taken on the ruling AIADMK government for alleged corruption, shared the stage with DMK leaders. Rajinikanth was seated among the audience in the front row. Asked whether he was joining politics, Kamal Haasan said that in 1983, DMK chief Karunanidhi sent him a telegram asking him to join the party and that he had not been able to give him an answer till now. Tamil Nadu: Rajinikanth at the 75th anniversary celebrations of DMK's mouthpiece Murasoli, in Chennai. pic.twitter.com/SPn3g6hsZW — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2017 × Kamal Haasan sat next to DMK Working President MK Stalin, who had backed him after a strident attack by Tamil Nadu Ministers for being critical of the government, and other senior party leaders. × The participation of the two stars at the DMK event assumes significance in view of their recent statements suggesting that they could be joining politics. Other celebrities who attended the celebrations included former cricket board chief, industrialist N Srinivasan and actor Prabhu, son of late actor Sivaji Ganesan. Kamal Haasan has taken on the ruling AIADMK (Amma) government over alleged corruption. Several state ministers had attacked the actor after he asked his followers to use social media to lodge graft complaints, and questioned the contribution of his fan clubs to the welfare of the people of the state. Chief Minister K Palaniswami had challenged him to join politics. Tamil Nadu politics has been dominated by the two Dravidian parties - the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) - since 1956. Their top leaders have been closely associated with the film industry. Watch: Actor Kamal Haasan, who has taken on the Tamil Nadu government on corruption issue, on Thursday shared the dais with opposition DMK leaders at a party event in Chennai. Superstar Rajinikanth chose to sit among the audience (WION) ×

Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan attend DMK event, spark rumours of joining politics

<p>Under attack from the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, including Chief Minister E K Palaniswami, for his allegations of corruption within the government, filmstar Kamal Haasan today exhorted the public to digitally register instances of graft with the government.</p>

<p>In his first response to politicians, including Palaniswami&#39;s remarks&nbsp;that he should take the political plunge to expect a response to his allegations, the 62-year- old actor said he had become an &quot;amateur politician&quot; the day he expressed his voice against imposition of Hindi in the state.</p>

<p>Responding to the ministers demanding proof of his charges of corruption in the government, Kamal Haasan said the entire state was making allegations in this regard.</p>

<p>He said his detractors, finance minister D Jayakumar who wanted him&nbsp;to take the political plunge, and BJP&#39;s H Raja were not aware that he had already entered politics.</p>

<p>Without naming anyone, Kamal Haasan said those in power and &quot;who forgot their responsibility by accepting money&quot; were threatening action against him for tax evasion. He added that this angered&nbsp;him and at the same time, he found it laughable.</p>

<p>On the ministers seeking evidence from him, he said the people were there to remind them of the corruption.</p>

<p>&quot;You should write to them if you had come across corruption in this government. Don&#39;t do that through letters or postcards as they will just tear them. Record them digitally and with dignity,&quot; said Haasan.</p>

<p>In his post on Twitter, the actor said that while there were people who would voice their concerns with regard to&nbsp;government departments, he would do the same for his own department, &quot;cinema&quot;.</p>

<p>The veteran filmstar alleged widespread corruption in giving tax exemption to films, adding, that many, apparently from the film industry, aided such corruption &quot;out of fear&quot;.</p>

<p>However, he added that there were a few exceptions like him.</p>

<p>&quot;People are not herds. Respect their voices. They will be clearly heard soon,&quot; said Kamal Haasan. He also provided a digital link to a government website for the people to air their grievances.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Tamil superstar also provided a digital link to a government website for the people to air their grievances

Under attack from the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, including Chief Minister E K Palaniswami, for his allegations of corruption within the government, filmstar Kamal Haasan today exhorted the public to digitally register instances of graft with the government. In his first response to politicians, including Palaniswami's remarks that he should take the political plunge to expect a response to his allegations, the 62-year- old actor said he had become an "amateur politician" the day he expressed his voice against imposition of Hindi in the state. Responding to the ministers demanding proof of his charges of corruption in the government, Kamal Haasan said the entire state was making allegations in this regard. He said his detractors, finance minister D Jayakumar who wanted him to take the political plunge, and BJP's H Raja were not aware that he had already entered politics. Without naming anyone, Kamal Haasan said those in power and "who forgot their responsibility by accepting money" were threatening action against him for tax evasion. He added that this angered him and at the same time, he found it laughable. On the ministers seeking evidence from him, he said the people were there to remind them of the corruption. "You should write to them if you had come across corruption in this government. Don't do that through letters or postcards as they will just tear them. Record them digitally and with dignity," said Haasan. In his post on Twitter, the actor said that while there were people who would voice their concerns with regard to government departments, he would do the same for his own department, "cinema". The veteran filmstar alleged widespread corruption in giving tax exemption to films, adding, that many, apparently from the film industry, aided such corruption "out of fear". However, he added that there were a few exceptions like him. "People are not herds. Respect their voices. They will be clearly heard soon," said Kamal Haasan. He also provided a digital link to a government website for the people to air their grievances.

Kamal Haasan, under attack from govt, asks people to digitally register instances of graft

<p>The AIADMK announced on Sunday that VK Sasikala would take over as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu on February 9. Sasikala, also known as Chinnamma, was elected the legislative party head by the AIADMK after a meeting with cabinet ministers and senior party leaders on Sunday.</p>

<p>Sasikala&#39;s name for the post of leader of AIADMK legislature party leader was also proposed by O Panneerselvam, the party said.</p>

<p>Many took to social media to express their dissent and anger upon her appointment.</p>

<p>Rapper-activist Sofia Ashraf and her crew went to Poes Garden, home to late chief minister Jayalalithaa, late on Sunday night and sang angrily, expressing their displeasure&nbsp;on the latest appointment to the Tamil Nadu chief minister&#39;s office. The video was live streamed on Facebook.</p>

<p>&quot;The main lyrics in the song is &#39;those who were not elected need not become ministers&#39;. And that&#39;s the sentiment most Tamilians have now. Democracy, as we know is dead. How can someone not elected by people become chief minister? It may be all legal, but it isn&#39;t right. People can&#39;t suddenly pop up and say we will be the CM,&quot; Sofia told The News Minute.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j9-7LccpVxY" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;It seemed like nothing was in our control. Felt angry and upset,&quot; Ashraf added.</p>

<p>Congress leader and former finance minister P&nbsp;Chidambaram has also questioned AIADMK&#39;s latest move. In a series of tweets, he raised doubts about Sasikala&#39;s ability to take over as chief minister of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is the right of AIADMK MLAs to elect their leader. It is the right of the people to ask if the leader deserves to be CM</p>
&mdash; P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/828420702936133632">February 6, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Looking back with pride, TN CM chair was occupied by Kamaraj and Anna. AIADMK and PEOPLE OF TAMILNADU are now moving in opposite directions.</p>
&mdash; P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/828421131694637056">February 6, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sasikala is expected to be sworn in as chief minister of the state on Tuesday. Meanwhile, a PIL was filed in the Supreme Court seeking to restrain the swearing-in of Sasikala on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu has on three occasions in the past witnessed persons not elected to the assembly being sworn in as chief minister -- CN Annadurai in 1967, VN Janaki (MGR&#39;s widow) in 1987 and Jayalalithaa in 2001. Of them, Janaki had to quit office within 24 days having lost the confidence of the House. Sasikala&#39;s proposed swearing-in will be the third such event since May 2016 when Jayalalithaa retained power.</p>

<p>(WION)</p>


Ashraf and her crew sang angrily, expressing their displeasure on the latest appointment to the Tamil Nadu chief minister's office

The AIADMK announced on Sunday that VK Sasikala would take over as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu on February 9. Sasikala, also known as Chinnamma, was elected the legislative party head by the AIADMK after a meeting with cabinet ministers and senior party leaders on Sunday. Sasikala's name for the post of leader of AIADMK legislature party leader was also proposed by O Panneerselvam, the party said. Many took to social media to express their dissent and anger upon her appointment. Rapper-activist Sofia Ashraf and her crew went to Poes Garden, home to late chief minister Jayalalithaa, late on Sunday night and sang angrily, expressing their displeasure on the latest appointment to the Tamil Nadu chief minister's office. The video was live streamed on Facebook. "The main lyrics in the song is 'those who were not elected need not become ministers'. And that's the sentiment most Tamilians have now. Democracy, as we know is dead. How can someone not elected by people become chief minister? It may be all legal, but it isn't right. People can't suddenly pop up and say we will be the CM," Sofia told The News Minute. "It seemed like nothing was in our control. Felt angry and upset," Ashraf added. Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram has also questioned AIADMK's latest move. In a series of tweets, he raised doubts about Sasikala's ability to take over as chief minister of Tamil Nadu. It is the right of AIADMK MLAs to elect their leader. It is the right of the people to ask if the leader deserves to be CM — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) February 6, 2017 × Looking back with pride, TN CM chair was occupied by Kamaraj and Anna. AIADMK and PEOPLE OF TAMILNADU are now moving in opposite directions. — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) February 6, 2017 × Sasikala is expected to be sworn in as chief minister of the state on Tuesday. Meanwhile, a PIL was filed in the Supreme Court seeking to restrain the swearing-in of Sasikala on Tuesday. Tamil Nadu has on three occasions in the past witnessed persons not elected to the assembly being sworn in as chief minister -- CN Annadurai in 1967, VN Janaki (MGR's widow) in 1987 and Jayalalithaa in 2001. Of them, Janaki had to quit office within 24 days having lost the confidence of the House. Sasikala's proposed swearing-in will be the third such event since May 2016 when Jayalalithaa retained power. (WION)

Sasikala as Tamil Nadu CM: Rapper Sofia Ashraf's musical dissent

kamal-haasan

Kamal Haasan, News on Kamal Haasan, stories on Kamal Haasan, articles on Kamal Haasan, Kamal Haasan stories at Wion, Kamal Haasan news, Kamal Haasan latest news

kamal haasan