‘Thalai’ sends heads rolling

In an exclusive chat, Ajith tells why he disbanded fan clubs. Fans plan protest march in Chennai.
Birthdays are august occasions for the stars to boost their image and fan following. But not for Ajith. On his 40th birthday last Sunday, the Tamil actor – popularly called Thalai — did the unthinkable by deciding to disband his all his fan clubs across the state.  Remember, Ajith has the most number of fan clubs after Rajinikanth in Tamil Nadu.  What was the trigger? For the first time after he took the “shocking decision”, Thalai has opened up to Bangalore Mirror, “It was a tough decision, but I had to take it. My fans associations have always been involved in philanthropic work. I really took pride in that. But of late, especially during the election time, I came to know that some members of my fans’ association had started misusing my name with reference to certain political parties. I came to know that even some monetary transactions took place in the context.”    Though the actor has not named any particular party, it is learnt that some of the fans have started campaigning for the AIADMK-led front.   The actor said, “I am finishing my 50th film Mankatha. I shall be failing in my duty if I fail to sincerely thank all those who have been associated in shaping my career so far. I thank all my fans, directors and well-wishers.”  He added, “I have never exploited my fans’ goodwill for professional or personal advancement.”  Calling a spade a spade has been Ajith’s hallmark always. Last year, when the entire Tamil film fraternity had gathered in Chennai with a view to honouring  Chief Minister Karunanidhi, Ajith had shocked everyone by his plain talk. Starting from Rajinikanth to Kamal, all the stars showered praises on the DMK leader. Ajith said film stars, who are busy shooting elsewhere, should not be forced to attend such felicitations as it not only disturbs the work schedule, but also enhances the cost of production. The entire stadium fell silent before Rajinikanth rose from his seat and started clapping, much to the surprise of the crowd. Sources say fans from Sivagangai are now planning to meet Ajith and request him to reconsider his decision. If the star does not relent, they will stage a protest in front of his residence in Chennai. Source:bangaloremirror.com