Political Banter: Rajinikanth and Duraimurugan Exhibit Eternal Friendship Amid Lighthearted Jibes

Senior DMK Minister Duraimurugan, responding negatively to superstar Rajinikanth's remarks about 'old timers' in the DMK, extended a gesture of friendship on Monday. Rajinikanth, unfazed by Duraimurugan's 'old actors' comment, affirmed their longstanding friendship. The brief controversy ended with mutual respect and continued camaraderie.

Senior DMK Minister Duraimurugan, who reacted strongly to Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth's remark about 'old timers' in the DMK, extended an olive branch saying they will remain friends forever.

Downplaying the sudden repartee, Rajinikanth stated he had no regrets over Duraimurugan's comment about 'old actors' denying opportunities to youngsters.

'He (Duraimurugan) is my long-time friend. I like him very much. I have no regrets over what Duraimurugan has said. Our friendship will continue,' Rajinikanth told reporters at the airport on Monday.

On Sunday, DMK General Secretary Duraimurugan, who is also a minister, said, 'Actors who have grown old, with falling teeth, and sporting beards are continuing to act, denying opportunity to young actors.' This remark was a response to Rajinikanth's comment comparing DMK seniors to old students refusing to leave the classroom.

At the release of the book 'Kalaignar Ennum Thaai,' Rajini received the first copy from Chief Minister M K Stalin and humorously noted that handling old students as a class teacher is challenging. His comments elicited laughs from the audience, including the chief minister.

Duraimurugan, seeking to end the controversy, told reporters on Monday, 'Let's not convert humour into hostility. We will forever remain as friends.' Meanwhile, BJP state chief K Annamalai suggested that Rajinikanth's comments might indicate discontent within the ruling party.

(With inputs from agencies.)