South cine star''s meeting with PM sets off political speculation

Tribune Web Desk

Chandigarh, September 4

In normal times it would have passed off as a casual courtesy call, but with 2019 elections not far away and political realignments in, the meeting of South superstar, Mohanlal with Prime minister Narendra Modi has triggered speculations that the Southern film star could contest the 2019 national election as a BJP candidate in Kerala.

Mohanlal posted that he had met PM Modi "on the auspicious day of Janmashtami" and briefed him about his Vishwa Santhi Foundation and its work.

"He has assured all support and offered to participate in the Global Malayalee Round table that can formulate futuristic solutions for a New Kerala," Mohanlal said at a press conference.

Mohanlal also said the PM had assured all possible assistance for Kerala, where the worst floods in a century killed nearly 300 people and displaced thousands of others.

Even the Prime minister tweeted his photo with the actor, who has acted in more than 200 films. Though this was not the first time that the two met but the latest meeting had political circles abuzz. Last year, PM Modi had invited Mohanlal to be part of the central government's 'Swachhata Hi Seva' movement. BJP has downplayed the meet claiming it was a routine meeting

Political circles are abuzz with speculation that Mohanlal could be the BJPs candidate for Thiruvananthapuram seat which is held by senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor.