Kamal Haasan reacts to Vijay’s political victory: 'He shouldn't be looked as cinema actor'

Kamal Haasan on Vijay (Pic/ Instagram, PTI)

C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday (May 10). His victory has been hailed by several film stars, who termed his win historic. After becoming the CM, Vijay announced the decision to shut more than 700 TASMAC liquor outlets in the state. His decision was supported by Kamal Haasan, who has now stated that he should no longer be looked at as a cinema actor.

Kamal Haasan on Vijay's win

Speaking to reporters outside Chennai airport, Haasan praised Vijay and said, "Vijay should no longer be looked at as a cinema actor. He has other responsibilities. A chief minister could come from any walk of life. I am proud that he has come from the film industry."

When asked if he would like to give any advice to Vijay, the actor said, "My congratulations to the new government of Tamil Nadu. The closure of 717 liquor shops is a welcome move. It has been discussed for a long time and has now been implemented. It is appreciable."

A day ago, Kamal had shown support for Vijay's first major policy move, with the administration ordering the closure of 717 Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) liquor outlets located near temples, schools, colleges, and bus stands across the state.

He wrote, "Even as the expectation of Tamil families was that liquor retail shops near places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands should be removed, Hon'ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Brother Vijay @TVKVijayHQ, has taken this action immediately upon assuming office. Liquor sales should never be a function of the government; the government must take responsibility for regulating the flow of alcohol. The Tamil Nadu government must move towards this position. Today, it has begun by closing 717 liquor shops. This number must be increased. This action must be continued. Congratulations."

More about Vijay

The actor effortlessly transitioned from acting to politics. While his last film, Jana Nayagan, remains in limbo, his party TVK caused a major stir in Tamil Nadu by beating both the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). His oath ceremony became the talk of the town, as his rumoured girlfriend, Trisha Krishnan, was all smiles while he embraced this new phase.