Date:09/12/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/09/stories/2007120958430100.htm

Front Page

Chiranjeevi asks fans to be patient

Special Correspondent

I am touched by the countless people’s warmth, says film star

His statement puts paid to flurry of reports in the media
‘I have not authorised anybody to act on my behalf’

HYDERABAD: Breaking his silence over the six-day long speculation in sections of the media that he was entering politics, Telugu film star K. Chiranjeevi asked his supporters to be patient till he makes an announcement on the issue.

In a brief statement faxed to the media on Saturday night, Mr. Chiranjeevi said, “I am deeply touched by the warmth displayed by countless people across the State in response to a recent news event. I appeal to all my supporters to be patient till I make an announcement on this issue. I have not authorised any individual or organisation to act on my behalf.”

The film star’s statement puts paid to the flurry of reports in the print as well as the electronic media since December 3 that he was planning to launch a political party sooner than later.

The basis of these reports was said to be an informal interaction that some reporters had with a close friend of the film star.

Mr. Chiranjeevi as well as his aides remained incommunicado to the media since then, fuelling further debate that a formal announcement was only a matter of time.

Although major political parties like the Congress and the Telugu Desam Party remained very guarded in their reaction to these reports, enthusiastic fans and supporters of Mr. Chiranjeevi held meetings and rallies urging him to take the plunge without delay.