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Veteran actor Rajinikanth has clarified his stand amid criticism surrounding his post-election meetings and political remarks in Tamil Nadu. Addressing a press conference at his Poes Garden residence in Chennai, Rajinikanth said he was “extremely shocked” when actor Vijay became the Chief Minister and added that Vijay had independently earned recognition by standing against the state’s two dominant political parties.Rajinikanth said he decided to address the media because repeated criticism and speculation about his actions were being projected as truth. Referring to his meeting with former Chief Minister MK Stalin after the election results, Rajinikanth said the interaction was purely based on personal friendship and had no political motive. He also said he felt saddened over Stalin’s defeat in the Kulathur constituency.The actor rejected attempts to link his name with any alleged DMK–AIADMK merger discussions and stressed that he had already stepped away from politics long ago. Rajinikanth added that he immediately congratulated Vijay after his victory.Reacting to the remarks, DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan said Rajinikanth had merely stated the factual situation. Elangovan said some people were unnecessarily twisting the actor’s comments and linking his name to political merger speculation.