Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray questioned the residency choices of prominent actors Vivek Oberoi and R Madhavan during an event organized by the Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena in Mumbai, asking why they live in Dubai despite publicly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his administration.
Raj Thackeray Questions Actor Relocation Amid Industrialist Migration
Raj Thackeray targeted the Centre during the Saturday gathering, pointing out that prominent film personalities have established residences outside India. According to the MNS chief, Vivek Oberoi—who starred in and made a biopic on the prime minister released in 2019—and R Madhavan both live in Dubai with their families. “So if you love India so much, if you love PM Modi, if they believe that PM Modi is developing India, then why are they living in a foreign land?” Raj Thackeray asked, as reported from the event.
The MNS leader alleged that such public figures return to India primarily for professional projects, specifically citing government-sponsored films like ‘Dhurandhar’ before heading back abroad. Public records and statements show that R Madhavan relocated to Dubai during the Covid-19 pandemic to support his son’s swimming career, while Vivek Oberoi moved to the region to start his business.
Did you know? Raj Thackeray also highlighted a broader trend during his address, asserting that thousands of industrialists across the country have packed up their bags and left India.
Criticism of Political Trolling and Public Discourse
Shifting focus to political opposition and online behavior, Raj Thackeray addressed the language used against Prime Minister Modi during Cockroach Janta Party-led (CJP) protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. While acknowledging the prime minister’s stance that such protesters should be guided rather than condemned, the MNS leader argued that the ruling party must also rein in its own supporters.
According to Raj Thackeray, BJP troll teams initiated targeted abuse against political icons, ranging from Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi to the Thackerays. He noted that many actors choose to remain silent on public issues out of fear of facing similar online harassment. “As you sow, so shall you reap,” he stated, adding that public figures and ordinary citizens alike deserve basic respect.
Underlying Grievances and Student Protests
Discussing the wave of recent demonstrations, Raj Thackeray stated that while the NEET paper leak issue served merely as an immediate trigger for the CJP protests, the overwhelming public turnout was the result of accumulated grievances built up over years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Raj Thackeray criticize Vivek Oberoi and R Madhavan?
Raj Thackeray questioned why both actors live in Dubai with their families despite praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his governance.
What reasons have Vivek Oberoi and R Madhavan given for moving to Dubai?
R Madhavan stated he relocated during the Covid-19 pandemic to support his son’s swimming career, while Vivek Oberoi moved to start his business.
What did Raj Thackeray say about political trolling?
He criticized the abusive language used against leaders from all sides, asserting that BJP troll teams initiated targeted online attacks against national icons and political figures.
Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on the debate surrounding public figures residing abroad while commenting on domestic politics? Share your views in the comments below.
Related reading