The fervent fan following for actors in Tamil Nādu is a well-documented phenomenon, with actors like Ajith and Vijay enjoying superstar status. However, the recent tragic incident involving an Ajith fan falling from the top of a truck and losing his life highlights the dangerous and potentially deadly consequences of this intense fan culture.
Production companies often exploit this fan following to make money, using the actor's popularity and creating competitiveness about who is numero-uno among two actors. The actors pocket hefty sums and do not say anything or rather have no say against today's powerful production houses who play with people's emotions to make a profit. This can be seen as a negative influence on youth, as it can lead to misguided priorities and misguided behavior. It is important for the industry to take responsibility and take steps to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Additionally, fans should also be encouraged to engage in healthy and safe ways to express their admiration.
Several steps need to be taken at once to address this toxic and deadly nature of fan following of actors. The media and the film industry should take a proactive role in educating fans about the dangers of this blind devotion and the importance of having a healthy perspective. The film industry should initiate self-regulation guidelines that discourage the use of dangerous or reckless behavior in the promotion of films or actors. Responsible reporting by the media should be followed rather than sensationalism or glorifying dangerous behaviors. Fans should be encouraged to express their admiration for their favorite actor in a healthy and safe manner. The actors themselves should come forward and advise their fans before every new film release to adhere to following safety guidelines set by them.
Fans who struggle with excessive admiration should be first advised by their parents. If such excessive behavior persists, they should be provided with counseling and support till they understand and find a purpose. Running extra shows on release days during ungodly hours to make a profit should be banned. This is when most of these youngsters get drunk and go overboard. Government should enforce laws and regulations to ensure the safety of the public and hold those responsible accountable for any violent and anti-social behavior.
It's important that these steps should be taken in collaboration with the fans, the actors, the film industry, and the government. Everyone has a role to play in preventing dangerous fan culture.
All things said and done, will anything be done by the above-mentioned associations and individuals? When all of them are in it for the money, it is only in their interests to keep this fire raging. One can only ask the parents to ensure that their children practice good manners and etiquette and focus on their future.