PremiumAs Cyclone Michaung wreaks havoc, Tamil stars unite for Chennai, Kamal Haasan, Suriya, Karthi, Vishal lead relief efforts
Tamil superstars Kamal Haasan, Suriya, Karthi and Vishal are leading the relief efforts in the wake of the destructions caused by Cyclone Michaung in Chennai and surrounding areas.
Last Updated: 11.09 AM, Dec 05, 2023
The Tamil film industry has rallied in support of the people of Chennai, grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung's heavy downpour. Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan took a very sympathetic tone towards the government while addressing the grave situation that has brought the city to its knees.
"No matter how much precaution the government takes, the effects of natural disasters can only be controlled to a certain extent. At this juncture, it is necessary to ensure our safety and work hand in hand with the government machinery to help the situation stabilize," Kamal wrote on X.
Kamal also requested the members of his political outfit, Makkal Needhi Maiam, to assist the people affected by the flooding.
Many pointed out the shift in Kamal's tone in holding the state government accountable for the collapse of the infrastructure during torrential rains. In 2015, when Chennai came to a standstill due to rains, Kamal was very critical of the then AIADMK government. He also highlighted the fragile infrastructure of the city in his smash hit song Pathala Pathala from the 2022 blockbuster Vikram.
However, not all voices are absolving the government of responsibility. Actor Vishal shared a video message expressing concerns about the well-being of the people living in low-lying areas in the city. "Can u pls let us know we in 2015 came onto the roads to help people in distress but after 8 years it is pathetic to see an even worse condition. We will continue to help this time around also for sure with food supplies & water, but I guess this time would love to see all the representatives of each constituency come out & do the needful & instil hope & help rather than fear & distress. I put my head down in shame as I write to you. Awaiting not a miracle but wat is called DUTY to Citizens. God Bless," Vishal tweeted while questioning the status of the much-publicized Chennai's storm-water drain project.
In the meantime, actors Suriya and Karthi have pledged Rs 10 lakh towards relief work in flood-affected districts, including Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur. It's said that the fan clubs of the actors have also pressed into action to assist people in need.