Chennai: Days after speculation mounted over Kollywood actor-politician Rajinikanth joining the BJP ahead of the 2021 Assembly Elections in Tamil Nadu, the actor on Friday (November 8) said that he would not be bait while others try to "saffronise" him, just like Thiruvalluvar.

Speaking to reporters, Rajinikanth said that former Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan did not offer him a place in the BJP and said, "He did not offer (a place in BJP). If there is a political party, people will say we can join. But there is definitely no such plan."

Rajinikanth also reiterated his thoughts on his speculated entry into the BJP and said, "There are continuous attempts to paint me with saffron just like Thiruvalluvar. Neither Thiruvalluvar nor I will be trapped into that."

The comment by the actor-politician came after Tamil Nadu's BJP  allegedly attempted to saffronise Thiruvalluvar in a tweet, where the sage was seen wearing a saffron robe.

Earlier, BJP leader Pon Radhakrishnan appealed to Rajinikanth and urged him to join the BJP.

Speaking to reporters, Pon Radhakrishnan then said, "I wholeheartedly welcome him into the BJP-fold. He is knowledgeable with insight and is bold and honest. Moreover, he remains a superstar, and I would be glad if he joins the BJP."

Also, on November 6, Pon Radhakrishnan visited Rajinikanth at his Poes Garden residence to congratulate him on winning the 'Icon of the Golden Jubilee' award, conferred by the International Film Festival of India (IFFI).