Sat, Apr 5 05:37 PM
Mumbai, Apr 5 (PTI) Film star Rajnikant pitching for Tamil Nadu in the Hogenakkal water row became an unlikely trigger today for a spat between Amitabh Bachchan and Shiv Sena which targetted him on the issue of Marathi pride but the Bollywood star said no one had a right to question what he did for Mumbai. The Shiv Sena said Bachchan is not doing anything for Maharashtra, while Rajnikant is agitating for Tamil Nadu on the Hogenakkal water issue between the southern state and neighbouring Karnataka.
An article in Shiv Sena mouthpiece "Samana" said, "several actors who live in Mumbai achieve fame and glory. But when it comes to taking a firm stand on the issue of Marathi or regional pride, many of them including film star Amitabh Bachchan backtrack.
" "But Rajnikant is one of the rare persons who has been true to the culture of Maharashtra. This is because he has taken side of the state which has made him big," the article said.
The reference points to the fact that Rajnikant was born in Maharashtra, grew up in Karnataka but became a superstar in Tamil Nadu. The article headline said "Rajnikant Khalya Meethala Jaagla" (Rajnikant has been loyal).
The report also questioned how may actors in Mumbai will have the guts to agitate for a cause of Mumbai or regional pride. Stung by Saamna's comparision with the Tamil superstar, Bachchan told reporters when asked for his comments "No one needs to question what I have done for Mumbai.
For I know what I have done." "Do you think I am not doing much for Maharashtra.
If that's what you think, then it is unfortunate", he asked. Bachchan was at a function at Mehboob studio in suburban Bandra on the occasion of `No Honking Day'.
PTI.
