Chiranjeevi entering politics with his own party Nanusitum
As the political atmosphere in Andhra Pradesh is heating up ahead of assembly elections, one and a half year away, there is fresh speculation over Telugu matinee idol Chiranjeevi’s entry into politics.
While there was no word from the superstar, sources close to him say the exercise has begun elicit views from people from various walks of life as a precursor to his foray into politics.
The actor is believed to have made up his mind to take the plunge and is likely announce his decision after Sankranti festival in January.
Chiru, as the actor is affectionately called by his fans and film industry, has been keeping the cards close to his chest about his political plans.
The leaders of powerful Kapu community, to which the star belongs, have been trying to persuade him to enter politics and end the domination of the two major castes — Kamma and Reddy — in the state.
However, Chiranjeevi who has a massive fan following across the communities, is said to be wary of being projected as a Kapu leader.
But he is expected to fill the leadership vacuum being felt among the numerically strong yet politically marginalised backward classes, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and minorities.
Of late, there have been efforts by Left parties to project Chiranjeevi, who has acted in 148 films, as a rallying point for weaker sections and leader of a possible Third Front as an alternative to the ruling Congress and main opposition TDP.
The Left parties, particularly the CPI have been in the forefront of efforts to forge a Third Front by roping in Chiranjeevi.
Media reports also suggested that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati-led BSP was keen on working with the actor.
Chirnajeevi’s fans have been rooting for his foray into politics and are confident that he can repeat the magic of late N T Rama Rao who had stormed to power within nine months of floating Telugu Desam Party and ended Congress monopoly in the state in 1983.
Though speculation about his entry into politics have been surfacing on and off for the last 15 years, the actor maintained a stoic silence.
However, in recent times he is said to be holding parleys with his aides and well-wishers in a bid to assess the political situation.
Chiranjeevi, a Padma Bhushan awardee, has been active in social work and philanthropic activity through the ‘Chiranjeevi Blood Bank’ and ‘Chiranjeevi Charitable Trust’ he floated couple of years ago.
The reports of his possible political plunge evoked enthusiastic response from his fans who organised rallies across the state and burst into celebrations in anticipation of their leader donning the political mantle.
The major political parties reacted guardedly to the fresh buzz about Chiranjeevi’s political entry.
While Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy said he would welcome any one joining politics and “more so” Chiranjeevi, the TDP leaders said they would rather wait for the actor to announce his decision.
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