(This article is authored by Alar)

Superstar Rajinikanth, whose latest film Jailer has set the box office on fire, has found a new fan in Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The actor, who is on a spiritual tour of northern India, watched the movie with the CM in Lucknow on Saturday. The duo also discussed various issues of mutual interest and exchanged views on the development of the film industry in UP.

Jailer, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, is a thriller that revolves around how a jailer foils the escape plan of a notorious criminal. The film, which also stars Tamannaah and Jackie Shroff, has earned rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. It has grossed over Rs 500 crore worldwide in just 10 days, making it one of the biggest hits of Rajinikanth’s career.

Rajinikanth, who arrived in Lucknow on Friday evening, expressed his gratitude to God for the success of the film. He also thanked Yogi Adityanath for his hospitality and praised his leadership. “He is a very good person and a very good administrator. He is doing a lot of good work for the people of UP,” Rajinikanth said.

Speaking to ANI about his visit, Rajinikanth said, "Yes, I am going to watch my film (Jailer) with the CM (Yogi Adityanath)." The actor will meet the CM at 7 pm on Saturday. Yogi Adityanath, who is known to be an admirer of Rajinikanth’s films, congratulated him for his stellar performance in Jailer.

The special screening of Jailer was also attended by UP Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and other dignitaries. Rajinikanth also met Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel at the Raj Bhavan on Saturday morning and sought her blessings.

Rajinikanth is scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Sunday, where he will offer prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple. He had earlier visited the Himalayas and Ranchi as part of his spiritual journey. He had also met Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan, who is a former BJP leader from Tamil Nadu.

Rajinikanth, who had announced his entry into politics in 2017, had later decided to opt out of it citing health reasons. He had said that he will continue to serve the people through his films and social activities. Now with Jailer success, the Superstar will be next move on to Thalaivar 170 with TJ Gnanavel, after his Chennai return.

#WATCH | Actor Rajinikanth in Lucknow on being asked about his visit to Ayodhya tomorrow; says, "Jee kal program hai." pic.twitter.com/naUdniPd3N

— ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2023