Few can match MGR’s intelligent moves and strategies in using his films as a medium to cultivate both his and his party’s image on screen. He was always seen in songs that subtly developed his public image, boosting his credibility as a benevolent patron and saviour of society. He took his ideas to the masses in his songs too.
To name a few popular MGR songs - ‘Naan Aanaiyittaal Adhu Nadandhu Vittaal’ (if I take a vow and it is implemented) from the film Enga Veettu Pillai of 1965, ‘Nenjam Undu Nermai Undu Odu Raja’ from the film En Annan, ‘Adho Antha Paravai Pola Vazha Vendum’ from Aayiratthil Oruvan, ‘Neenga Nalla Irukkonom Naadu Muunera’ from Idhaykani.
Similarly, thespian Sivaji Ganesan and actor Bhagyaraj, who also had their stints in politics, tried to propagate their party ideologies through songs. Vijayakanth stepped into the fray much later and he took the MGR route by positioning himself as a nationalist, often solving state security issues on screen and sending political messages directly to his fans via his movies.
Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are the new entrants. Several songs and dialogues in Rajinikanth’s hit films such as ‘Podhuvaaga En Manasu Thangam’ (Murattu Kaalai) ‘Ennoda Rasi Nalla Rasi’ (Maapillai), ‘Oruvan Oruvan Mudhalali’ (Muthu) and Padayappa hinted at his political leaning which may come in handy while at election time.
Now, Haasan is already in and having announced his party name and flag, we take a look at Kamal Haasan’s film songs that might help him while campaigning. Though it is a mixed bag, the following numbers may prove to be hits on election campaign trails - ‘Potta Padiyudhu Padiyudhu’ (Sathya), ‘Annathe Aadurar’ (Aboorva Sahodarargal), ‘Varudhu Varudhu Vilgu Vilagu’ and ‘Thoongathe Thambi Thoongathe’ (Thoongathe Thambi Thoongathe), ‘Kappaleri Poyachu’ (Indian), ‘Unnaal Mudiyum Thambi Thambi’ (Unnaal Mudiyum Thambi), ‘Yaarendru Therigiradha’ (Viswaroopam) and ‘Naan Vetri Prettravan’ (Vikram).
