From the penniless aspiring actor to a formidable talent, the journey of Prakash Raj continues to be one of inspiration. His vocal opposition of the BJP and his scrupulous political observation makes his voice important in the poll-bound Karnataka. Prakash Raj, who confessed to being anti-BJP and took on prime minister Narendra Modi over his silence on the murder of his friend and journalist Gauri Lankesh, opens up on why he chose to be an activist. Excerpts from the interview:
Paying back to society
When I landed in Chennai from Bengaluru, all that I had in my pocket was Rs 120. I have acted in over 300 movies in a span of 30 years. I own houses and farmlands in three states. I work on movies at least 100 days a year. Did all this happen only because of my skills? No way. I'm here because of people's love and support. So, it is a bounden duty to pay back to society.
Karnataka campaign
I have completed the first round of my personal campaign tour covering entire Karnataka ahead of the assembly elections. I attended several corner meetings and debates. Some of them were organised by Dalit outfits and theatre groups. Being an actor, events I take part would get good media coverage. Even if nobody covers it, there will be posts and discussions on social networking platforms. I have around 20 lakh followers on Twitter and I’m very active on Facebook as well.
Asking questions
I never identified myself with any political party. I want to raise critical and constructive questions no matter which party is in power. The likes of Mahatma Gandhi, A P J Abdul Kalam and Babasaheb Ambedkar never won an election, but they hold an undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of people.
Politics over the Cauvery
I’m trying to present issues from different perspectives in my speeches. Take for example the Cauvery water sharing issue. The Cauvery is not a large river like the Ganga. Most of the tributary streams that once fed Cauvery don’t exist now. Instead of using the issue as a political weapon, the reality should be discussed.
No anti-incumbency factor
Siddaramaiah should consider retirement because his political career is over. He is a socialist, not a Congressman. He was lethargic during the first three years in power, but in the next two years, he initiated many pro-people measures. When I toured the state, I couldn’t see anti-incumbency wave anywhere. The only reason behind the BJP's projection of B S Yeddyurappa as its main leader is to woo Lingayat votes.
On Gauri Lankesh
I was hurt deeply by her untimely death. I have no doubt that it is the fascist forces who silenced her. Unfortunately, that cowardly act is not getting the attention it deserves in the ongoing election campaigns.
Left's fall in Karnataka
Lack of quality leadership and the inability to adjust to the changing social and political climate have debilitated the Left parties in Karnataka. I’m happy to see Kamal Haasan’s new role as a politician, but I don’t see any other prominent personality in his party.
New projects
I’m just back after completing the shoot for Mohanlal-starrer Odiyan. My next Malayalam movie is with Manju Warrier. I will also be directing the Hindi remake of Malayalam hit Salt and Pepper.