Chennai: The morale of DMDK workers, which was at a low ebb due to the health condition of party president Vijayakanth, has touched a new high now.
For, Saturday evening saw the first public meeting addressed by the actor-turned-politician’s eldest son Vijay Prabhakar, and Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam members feel their new leader has arrived.
“We can’t ask for more. Vijay Prabhakar has made a splashing debut in politics and our ‘Vice-Captain’ has delivered a very mature speech. He is sure to go places as a politician and with the blessings and
guidance of Captain (Vijayakanth) and Anniyar (Premalatha Vijayakanth), he will take the party to great heights,” says Ramesh Kumar, a party member.
DMDK office-bearers had made grand arrangements for the Saturday event held at Anakaputhur on the outskirts of the city. Anagai Murugesan, DMDK district secretary and the man behind the function, says, “Vijay Prabhakar is a brilliant youngster and he will carry forward the legacy of Captain.”
Murugesan, who has vowed not to wear slippers till Vijayakanth became Chief Minister, adds: “The time is not far away and Captain will lead the State soon. Vijay Prabhakar will be a pillar of support.”
Talking about his political debut, Vijay Prabhakar, who is the owner of Chennai Smashers, the Chennai franchise in the Premier Badminton League, says, “I am going to indulge in active politics. There is a rumour that I would be given a top post in the party’s youth wing. But politics is not about chasing positions. It is about serving the public. I have a lot of plans for the welfare of the people and for the growth of the party. I will implement them with the blessings of Appa. I request the youth in the party to join hands with me.”
He adds: “I will follow in the footsteps of my father. I am not going to do something which he has not attempted so far. The State and the party are our two eyes and our strategies will be unveiled during the
time of elections.”
Stating that Chennai lacks growth when compared to other south Indian cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru, Prabhakar says a lot needs to be done to ensure the overall development of Tamilnadu. On the health of Vijayakanth, he said, “Appa is fine and he will be back in active politics. People and party members are going to see this soon.”
From Dad’s desk
Says Vijay Prabhakar, “When I was about to start from home for the meeting, Appa told me two things. ‘Tell party workers that I will be back soon. Wind up the event soon since it appears rain will come and ask women members to return home soon.’ I got his blessings and told him that I would safeguard his name and convey the messages to DMDK cadres.”