Chennai : Superstar Rajinikanth on Monday tried to don the MGR mantle and said he was entering politics to fill in the vacuum that existed in the state after the big two leaders – J Jayalalithaa and M Karunanidhi are out of politics.

While Jayalalithaa died in December 2016 and Karunanidhi has become inactive due to advancing age and health complications.

Earlier I was always asked the question why did you not enter politics when Jayalalithaa was alive? The answer, Rajinikanth said is quite clear, there is a vacuum now which I want to fill. Besides, you are not doing a good job, which is forcing me to enter politics, Rajinikanth said to thunderous applause from students, fans and supporters of Thalaivar who came to unveil the statue of MGR on the occasion of MGR birth centenary celebrations at the MGR university in Chennai.

Staking claim to MGR’s legacy, Rajinikanth said he will give as good a governance as MGR gave to the people and especially to the poor. ‘

“I can repeat the good governance that MGR provided, with the help of good advice of good people,” Rajinikanth said in his 40-minute speech peppered with humour, wit and sarcasm besides few inspiring life lessons to the student community.

It is the first time that Rajinikanth spokes politics to a general audience.

He said he was sure politicians do not welcome him into politics, but since he wanted to serve the people he came. “I know it is not a bed of flowers,” Rajinikanth said of politics.

He advised the student community to stay away from politics and study instead. “Do not join my party, even if I start one,” he told the student gathering.

Switching into the role of a politician came so naturally to Rajinikanth – attired in white shirt and white waisti he mingled with the students, leaders and the academia.