Actor Prakash Raj, who has been critical of prime minister Narendra Modi and his government, announced on Tuesday, 1 January, that he will contest the Lok Sabha election as an independent candidate.
"Happy New Year to everyone. A new beginning... more responsibilities... With your support, I will be contesting in the coming Parliament elections as an independent candidate. Details of the constituency soon. Ab ki baar Janata ki sarkar," Prakash tweeted.
Prakash is a known name in the southern film industry. He has featured in movies like Iruvar (1997), Antahpuram (1998) and Kanchivaram (2009). He has also made his presence felt in Hindi cinema with movies like Singham (2011) and Wanted (2011).