Politics and the Southern film industry have shared a deep connection, with many stars seamlessly transitioning into political roles. These actors not only commanded the silver screen but also wielded significant influence in the political arena. Let’s take a closer look at nine prominent Southern actors who ventured into politics:
NT Rama Rao (NTR): Beyond his stellar acting career, NTR established the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and served as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh for three terms. His impact on both cinema and politics earned him widespread admiration.
MG Ramachandran (MGR): MGR was not only a legendary actor but also a successful politician. Serving as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu his popularity earned him the title of Makkal Thilagam.
Jayalalithaa: After a flourishing film career, Jayalalithaa ventured into politics following the footsteps of her mentor MGR. She became the youngest Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and served for more than 14 years leaving a lasting legacy.
Mohan Babu: A veteran in Tollywood, Mohan Babu entered politics in 1982 and served as a Rajya Sabha member. His contribution to both Telugu and Tamil cinema is commendable, with over 500 feature films to his credit.
Chiranjeevi: Known as the Megastar, Chiranjeevi made a significant impact in both cinema and politics. He founded the Praja Rajyam Party in Andhra Pradesh and served as the Minister of Tourism.
Kamal Haasan: An enigmatic icon, Kamal Haasan founded the Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) party in 2018. With a career spanning over six decades and films in multiple languages he continues to inspire millions across the nation.
Pawan Kalyan: In a recent political upheaval, Pawan Kalyan’s Janasena Party, in alliance with TDP and BJP, secured a significant victory in the AP Elections 2024. His transition from a cinematic heartthrob to a political leader has captivated the masses showcasing his enduring appeal.
Vijay: Tamil hero Thalapathy Vijay recently announced his political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam indicating his foray into the political landscape.
