Prakash Raj takes a dig at Vijay’s ‘cinema model’ politics: Cannot give country to actors
Actor Prakash Raj criticized Vijay’s political entry, calling it a ‘cinema model’ of politics. He urged voters to choose between the Dravidian, Ghulam or Cinema models ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections.
Actor Prakash Raj took a dig at actor Vijay’s political entry, taking a dig at what he called the “cinema model” of politics. His comments come as Vijay is actively campaigning in the political arena with his party, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections.
Prakash Raj’s attack on Vijay’s ‘cinema model’ politics
Speaking at a campaign event for CPI(M) candidate N Pandi in Palani, Prakash Raj outlined three prevalent political approaches in the state – the Dravidian model, the “slave model”, and the “cinema model”.
Addressing the gathering, the actor questioned the increasing trend of film stars entering politics, in an apparent reference to Vijay. He said that while actors can play a variety of roles on screen, political engagement in real life demands a different kind of accountability and commitment.
He said, “In films, you can be a doctor, an engineer or even a chief minister. But, in politics, how can you directly become a CM? Have you talked about politics like me? Have you stood up for the people and Tamil Nadu when they were facing issues or stood up for the language or its self-respect? The love that people have for you is for your talent, not for your politics. You can use the same love for your politics.”
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Politics and cinema are different: Prakash Raj
The 61-year-old said politics demands direct engagement with people at the grassroots level. Citing actor-politician Seeman as an example, he said he has been continuously active in politics for over a decade, unlike many actors who step down without sustained involvement. He questioned voters as to what kind of governance they preferred – the Dravidian model, the “slave model”, or the “Cinema model”.
Prakash Raj said that politics should be driven by the people, elected representatives should focus on hard work and ground work. Instead, he argued, the current system often sees those in power playing politics while ordinary citizens are left to carry the burden of real work.
He said, “People stood in queues in the summer, put up cut-outs, bought tickets, and ignored their homes and work to show you love, and now you are using it for your political entry? Look, if I like an actor, I can whistle till I get choked up. But I can’t give them the country. Politics is different; cinema is different. That love is different; this responsibility is different. One must get down to the ground and Should speak.”
Prakash Raj and Vijay’s business collaboration
Despite political differences, Prakash Raj and Vijay have a long professional relationship, having worked together in films ghilli, Sivakasi, Villu And Aathi. They were last seen together heir. Prakash Raj has in the past told VijayChellam(Dear), and extended his good wishes when he announced his political plans in 2024.
Both the actors are also set to share screen space in the upcoming film Jan NayganWhich has faced delays but continues to generate interest among fans.
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