Rajinikanth will not contest in India’s general election

Indian actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth, ending months of speculation and suspense, on Sunday declared that he would not contest the upcoming general elections or support anyone.

In a statement, he said, "I am not supporting anyone. No party should use my picture or outfit's logo" for any propaganda.

"My party has no support in the upcoming parliamentary election to any parties. So no one should use my photo or flags in the name of Rajini Makkal Mandram and Rajini Fan Club should not be used to support or campaign for any party," the statement read.

He also asked people to examine and vote for a party that would form a strong government and solve Tamil Nadu's water crisis permanently.

Rajinikanth had announced his entry into politics in December 2017 and made his fan clubs a part of the Rajini Makkal Mandram. Since then, there has been much speculation about his possible political alliances.

The Tamil superstar had assured his followers that his politics will be "spiritual" and that it will be based on "honesty and truthfulness".

Both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, the other noted actor from southern cinema to turn to politics, have stepped into the political void left in Tamil Nadu after the death of former Chief Minister and AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa.

Rajinikanth's announcement comes amid reports of the AIADMK and the BJP finalising an electoral deal for the Lok Sabha election in Tamil Nadu.