Chennai , 12 June (H.S.):

Actor, director and choreographer Raghava Lawrence on Friday hinted at a possible entry into politics, saying recent circumstances had brought him to a stage where he felt the need to consider taking the plunge. However, he stopped short of making a formal announcement and instead sought the advice and guidance of the public before making a final decision.

In a message shared on social media platform X, Lawrence said he had never imagined entering politics and had never pursued public life with the intention of earning money or securing a political position. He said his long-held belief was that if a leader he trusted entered politics, he would stand by that person and contribute to serving society on a larger scale.

The actor said developments in recent times had prompted him to rethink his position and seriously consider a political role. Referring to a video released along with his statement, Lawrence said he had explained how politics gradually became a part of his life, his understanding of public service, his mother’s views on politics and several experiences that had influenced his thinking over the years.

Appealing to the public to watch the video in full, Lawrence said their opinions and guidance were important to him as he contemplated what he described as a major step in his life. He added that public feedback would play a crucial role in shaping his decision.

In a subsequent post, the actor clarified that his commitment to social service would continue irrespective of his political future. He said that if people advised him against entering politics, he would continue carrying out charitable and welfare activities as he had been doing for years.

At the same time, Lawrence indicated that a positive response from the public could pave the way for his political debut. In that event, he said he would later reveal when he planned to enter politics and with whom he intended to begin his political journey.

The statement has fuelled speculation in Tamil Nadu political circles, particularly amid reports linking Lawrence with the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). There has been growing speculation that he could be fielded as a candidate in the upcoming Tiruchy East Assembly by-election.

Lawrence had initially announced that he would make an important life decision public on June 11. The announcement, however, was postponed by a day as a mark of respect following the death of veteran filmmaker Bharathiraja.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman