Rajini fans protest against Sarath

As R Sarathkumar, founder-president of All India Samathuva Makkal Katchi which is an ally of the ruling AIADMK, slammed superstar Rajinikanth for calling the current political climate in Tamil Nadu "unusual" during a speech at an event in the city on Saturday, the top actor's fans jumped into protests against the former Nadigar Sangam president.

His portraits and effigies were burnt across Tamil Nadu and posters popped up against him, demanding to seek apology.

Speaking at the 47th anniversary of the Tamil magazine 'Thuglak', Rajinikanth had said, “When we see untoward... unusual political happenings, I wonder how it would be if Cho were here. I feel really sad."

Reacting to this, Sarath said that Rajinikanth is not qualified to speak about Tamil Nadu politics and asked Rajinikanth to clarify about the “unusual” situation that he mentioned. He also said that if Rajinikanth ever enters politics, he will be the first one to oppose it.

Meanwhile, Sarath has clarified that his recent comments about his friend and superstar Rajinikanth have been "misinterpreted".

"Even though Rajinikanth is a dear friend, a superstar and a very good human being, we can't take his opinion seriously. He will comment whenever he feels convenient. One who works for the state and understands Tamil culture is eligible to comment on the political situation."