Rajinikanth has also discussed how he now feels nervous to speak at public events when it comes to public ceremonies for public appearances. Speaking at the launch of his upcoming film *Dharmam* in Chennai, the veteran actor spoke through the years of fame in the public eye, criticism and life under the glare of the public eye.
“Whenever I Speak, It Becomes a Problem”
Rajinikanth began his speech with a funny but pointed comment on the reactions his words often generate.
“When someone asks me to speak, I feel hesitant,” he said. “If I speak, it’s a problem—for me or for you,” he said to laughter from the audience.
The actor said criticism always follows him no matter what he does. Rajinikanth said staying silent is what makes people think that he is not talking about his opinions, while talking out loud is another round of debates and controversies.
‘If I Stay Quiet, People Question Me’
Rajinikanth said of the challenges of being a public figure: “Even silence is interpreted and criticized. If I remain quiet, people ask why I am not speaking. If I speak, some ask why I spoke now, while others say I should not have spoken at all,” he remarked.
The actor’s comments seem to reflect the pressure celebrities suffer in an age when each public statement becomes instantly dissected across television, social media and political spheres.
A Life Lesson After Decades in the Spotlight
With respect to the long career, Rajinikanth shared what he said was the most important lesson he learned over the years. He said people who dislike someone will often continue to criticize them regardless of their actions, while blindly assuming supporters will approve of everything is equally unrealistic.
“After many years, I have learned that people who don't like us will not like us no matter what we do. And thinking that those who like us will support everything we do is also foolish,” he said
The actor said that perfect universal approval can't be expected and it is important for people to be cautious and realistic about what people think about public perceptions.
Political Scrutiny and Public Attention
In recent years, Rajinikanth has found himself at the center of the public and political discussion. Whether it is his political views, his opinions about social issues or his meetings with the political leaders, the actor has been bombarded online by criticism and trolling.
Even routine courtesy meetings with political figures have stirred discussions and speculation, keeping the superstar in the headlines beyond his film career.
Busy Schedule Ahead
Rajinikanth is preparing to start shooting for *Dharmam* on Thursday. The actor has the eagerly awaited *Jailer 2*, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, which will shoot in the next few months. Further to the excitement of fans, Rajinikanth is also set to reunite with the legendary Kamal Haasan for a future project that is expected to go on floors in 2027.
Though his films are still causing joy, Rajinikanth’s open and candid comments at the launch of *Dharmam* showed once more why he remains among India’s most influential and closely watched public figures. And it was simple and powerful: criticism will be made in the public eye whether we speak or not.
