Chiranjeevi: A reel hero, not real hero

Mega star, the name was synonymous with Tollywood. The actor who once ruled the Telugu film industry with his heroic stunts was a popular mass hero. When Chiranjeevi announced his decision to join politics, many expected to see the same hero qualities off screen too. Unfortunately that was not to be.

Chiru's followers thought the union minister would apply the same strategies he used in his movies in real lure too to convince the Congress against division of state. Had Chiranjeevi done that, he would have been hailed as a real hero by Samaikyandhra.

Now, some flashback:
Before the 2009 elections Chiru said 'Jai Telangana'. But after his defeat in the elections, he said 'Nahi to Telangana'.

It may be recalled fact that when he floated the erstwhile PRP party, Chiru had vowed to support the Telangana cause to woo voters.

"It is for the Centre to take a decision on a separate statehood to Telangana. If it comes up with such a proposal, our party will not be an obstacle at any cost," he had told a mammoth gathering in a Telangana town on October 31, 2008. This was before the polls. After his charisma failed to earn enough votes in Telangana region, he switched sides to Samiakyandhra. Chiru was seen openly declaring his leaning towards united Andhra Pradesh.

Again, this was till his party merged with Congress and he became a union minister. The actor-turned-politician still claims to be a staunch supporter of Samikyandhra, but he doesn't dare cross the line marked by Sonia Gandhi, it is believed. Who wants to lose a plum post?
The talk in the political circles centers around the role played by Chiranjeevi in the fight for Samaikyandhra. People are wondering to what extent he pushed himself to convince the Congress High Command against dividing the state.

Speculation is rife that some Union Ministers from Seemandhra region are  getting ready to resign opposing the division of the state. However, the reel life good man who stood for unity has chosen to stay mum on the issue.

The buzz in the film industry is that the fans of Mega Family are divided into two parts. While Pawan shares a major chunk of them, Chiranjeevi enjoys only a few thanks to his falling image.

People from coastal districts are crying foul over Chiranjeevi saying they won't allow Chiranjeevi to enter their districts. There are reports that Chiranjeevi will be handed a top post in the Seemandhra state (Andhrapradesh after dividing the state). Some even say he could be made the chief minister. That way Chiru's dream of becoming the head of state too will be fulfilled. However, the question is if public accept that?

It is a known fact that his loyal supporter Ganta Srinivas Rao too resigned from his ministry post. Many are puzzled over Chiranjeevi's silence when Seemandhra is burning with agitations.

- Siva@sakshipost