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Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh: Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi yesterday launched his political party Praja Rajyam (People's Rule) at a convention attended by hundreds of thousands of people.
"It will be a democratic and secular party. It will be people's party, born from the hearts of people. It will be a party for backward classes, farmers, workers, women and youth," he said, addressing thousands gathered for the launch here.
"The party will work for development, modernisation and industrial revolution. Its goal will be contentment and happiness of Andhra Pradesh," he said amid cheers from an estimated million people gathered from across Andhra Pradesh.
A sea of humanity descended on the sprawling Avilala Cheruvu ground to witness what is described a watershed development in Andhra Pradesh politics, that could alter the state's political equations.
There was pandemonium as enthusiastic fans of the actor tried to push their way towards the dais by clambering on barricades, electric poles and trees, resulting in a stampede.
However, there were no reports of any casualties.
Police had to use teargas and cane the boisterous fans, who were seen throwing chairs at one another and trying to enter the enclosure meant for the physically challenged near the dais.
Documentary
More than 3,000 policemen and an equal number of volunteers failed to control the massive crowds, which had started gathering at the venue this morning. "We beg you. Please, don't climb on barricades. They are dangerous. Your leader will be pained if you get hurt," appealed one of the organisers.
Amid the melee, a group of film artists entertained the crowds by singing and dancing to the tunes of hit numbers from Chiranjeevi's films.
A documentary on the 30-year-old film career of the actor and his social services was screened on huge LCD screens.
Though the cultural programmes began at 4pm, Chiranjeevi, who had reached the town early in the morning and offered prayers at the Lord Venkateshwara temple, arrived much later.
Thousands of vehicles were still stranded outside the town.
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