Back in April, when music composer Ilayaraaja faced heat for comparing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to famed social reformer and chairman of the committee that drafted India’s Constitution - BR Ambedkar, there was a strong buzz that Ilayaraaja will be nominated for a Rajya Sabha MP seat.
“Ilaiyaraja is not a member of the BJP. He belongs to the whole of Tamil Nadu. If the President of India nominates him as one of the 12 nominated members of Rajya Sabha, it is indeed an honour,” - Tamil Nadu BJP leader Annamalai, April 2022
The same has now been officially confirmed and Narendra Modi through his personal twitter account has expressed that he is 'glad' about the development.
The creative genius of @ilaiyaraaja Ji has enthralled people across generations. His works beautifully reflect many emotions. What is equally inspiring is his life journey- he rose from a humble background and achieved so much. Glad that he has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha. pic.twitter.com/VH6wedLByC
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2022
Others who have been newly nominated include former athlete PT Usha, Veerendra Heggade and Baahubali screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad.
Shri V. Vijayendra Prasad Garu is associated with the creative world for decades. His works showcase India's glorious culture and have made a mark globally. Congratulations to him for being nominated to the Rajya Sabha.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2022