Newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor-turned-politician Vijay has sparked debate with his choice of Rajmohan as minister in charge of Film Technology and the Cinematograph Act, alongside School Education and Tamil Development and Information. Actor-producer Vishal questioned Rajmohan’s industry experience, while Raghava Lawrence urged patience, arguing Vijay would not have made the appointment without careful consideration.
A week after taking oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister following his Assembly election victory, actor-turned politician Vijay has begun assigning portfolios to ministers from his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Among the key appointments, actor-filmmaker Rajmohan was handed the Film Technology and Cinematograph Act portfolio, along with School Education and Tamil Development and Information. The decision, however, has sparked discussion within the film industry, with actor-producer Vishal publicly questioning the move while actor-filmmaker Raghava Lawrence came out in support of it.
Taking to X on Sunday, Vishal expressed disappointment over the allocation. “Happy to see #CMJosephVijay allocating ministries to respective elected MLAs but it’s disheartening to see honorable minister #Rajmohan to be in charge as minister of Film Technology and Cinematograph Act,” he wrote.
Vishal further raised concerns over whether someone with limited experience in the workings of the film industry could address its present challenges. “How would I or we as a body or as an association render our requests or grievances of our film industry which is actually bleeding and so many reforms to be made and give a ray of hope for the fraternity especially producers /production houses to someone who has lesser or no experience of what is happening in our industry more than our CM who was and is part of the industry from grassroot level and being part of the fraternity for last 30 years,” he added.
Clarifying that his criticism was not personal, he concluded, “Not demeaning Mr. Rajmohan, but it’s just my opinion. CM can give us the much needed relief. God bless.”
Raghava Lawrence, however, defended Vijay’s decision and urged people to give Rajmohan time. “Our Honorable Chief Minister and Nanba #CMJosephVijay surely would not have taken this decision without careful thought and consideration. Rather than reacting impulsively, let us give it some time and extend our support,” he wrote on X.
Lawrence added, “I’m hopeful that Minister Raj Mohan will deliver his best for the welfare of the film fraternity... deserves some time and a fair opportunity to settle into this role.”
Rajmohan is a filmmaker, comedian and media personality, who built a strong digital presence through his YouTube channel Put Chutney. He has also worked as a stand-up comedian, appeared in films and made his directorial debut with Baba Black Sheep in 2023.