more-in From former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s memorial in Rameswaram to the ancient temple town of Madurai, fans thronged the roads to greet Kamal Haasan as he began his political journey on Wednesday. At Kalam’s memorial, a jubilant crowd of about 700 waited for over two hours in the heat, and began dancing as the actor arrived. “In crisp white shirt, Kamal has the charisma and feel of a politician,” said Praveen Edward, a businessman from Coimbatore who shook hands with the actor and wished him luck. “It helps that he is intelligent. Half the battle is won,” he added. Some fisher-women who had travelled 15 km to Gandhi Mahal in Rameswaram to meet the actor said that they could barely catch a glimpse of him. “His party cadre requested us to come because they said Kamal wanted to meet the deprived fisher-women. The entire hall was filled with fans and we barely got any time to tell him our woes. Will we always be ignored?” they asked. Despite what they thought was a snub, they wished him well. The actor-politician, then cruised through Ramanathapuram, Paramakudi and Manamadurai en route to Madurai. The crowds had mushroomed at each pit stop along the way. What started as a group of 200 people at Dr. Kalam’s house became around 2,000 at Paramakudi, Mr. Kamal Haasan’s birthplace. ‘Fresh air’ Fans felt the actor’s entry into politics was like a breath of fresh air. P. Sankarapandi, a fan, said, “There is a vacuum in Tamil Nadu politics. We lack a capable leader. We are sick and tired of corruption. We believe Kamal can change that. He is a national icon who understands the plight of the people.” Paramakudi gave a rousing welcome with songs, dance, whistles and cheers. Roads were plastered with posters hailing the actor. Though the locals hailed him a real life hero, some were miffed. R. Rajesh, a local business owner, said many residents were annoyed with the actor for ignoring his town for years. “He has not visited this place once after he achieved fame in films. It will be great if he focuses on our town after his political entry,” he said. Manamadurai saw about 500 fans. The actor stopped for a 10-minute interaction at the last two public meetings for want of time. “My friend from Delhi is waiting to be received. I will certainly visit and discuss the prospects of development soon,” he said, referring to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and left in a hurry.

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