Rajini quarantines in Hyderabad, cadre worried COVID will delay party launch again

Superstar Rajinikanth quarantined himself in Hyderabad. Initially, there was panic among Rajini fans as rumours spread thick and fast that the Superstar could have been infected, but the production house soon clarified that Rajini tested negative. An official announcement was made by Sun Pictures, the producers of the film on social media. “During routine testing at Annaathe shoot, 4 crew members have tested positive for COVID-19.

Superstar Rajinikanth and other crew members have tested negative.

To ensure utmost safety, Annaatthe shooting has been postponed.” The actor has chosen to quarantine himself in Hyderabad, instead of returning to Chennai as originally planned.

Meanwhile, this could be a setback of sorts to Rajini’s much anticipated political entry. As per the actor’s December 3 announcement, he committed to launching his party in January 2021, and said he intended to contest the ensuing state Assembly polls. The date for his launch was to be announced on December 31. Now, as per quarantine rules, Rajinikanth will have to isolate himself for at least 10-14 days.

With barely a week to go for his promised announcement on December 31, sources in his camp are concerned that the launch will be delayed once again, as he will not be able to participate in crucial meetings and pre-launch discussions. “There are several important decisions that need to be taken concerning candidates, strategy and office-bearers,” revealed a member of Rajini Makkal Mandram who is in the know of developments. It is expected that some members will travel to Hyderabad and interact with Rajini directly.

The shooting of Annaatthe too resumed last week for the first time after lockdown in March. According to reports, the team was shooting for 14 hours a day at the Ramoji Rao Film City. Directed by Siva, the team had planned to finish the shoot in a single stretch with all the cast members.

This is the second time that the shoot has been postponed after a couple of people in the unit tested for COVID in October before Rajini was to begin shooting for the film on October 10.