The 70th General Body Meeting of the South Indian Artistes’ Association (Nadigar Sangam) was held at Valluvar Kottam in Chennai on September 27, with several issues concerning the association and its members discussed. Senior actress Latha was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award, while five theatre artistes were also presented with special awards. President Nassar said the gathering was completed successfully, though General Secretary Vishal could not attend because of an injury sustained during the shooting of ‘Purushan.’

Nadigar Sangam wanted to felicitate Rajinikanth for 50 years in cinema

During the meeting, the association discussed holding a special felicitation for Rajinikanth to mark his 50 years in the film industry. However, the plan did not move forward as the actor was not in favour of holding such a celebration. The association’s representatives discussed the milestone and expressed their intention to honour Rajinikanth, who completed five decades in cinema this year. The development became one of the key talking points from the general body meeting.

Nadigar Sangam building to be opened by December, association says

The new Nadigar Sangam building emerged as one of the key points discussed at the meeting. Association office-bearers said the construction work is nearing completion and that efforts are being made to hold the inauguration before the end of the year. Nassar said the association plans to invite Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay for the opening, while Karunas said a date would be finalised after discussing the Chief Minister’s convenience. Reports from the meeting said December is being targeted for the inauguration.

Nadigar Sangam announces legal action over online comments

Another important decision concerned online content targeting actors and actresses. The association said legal action has already been initiated against around nine people over alleged defamatory or false statements about its members on YouTube and other online platforms. Karunas said complaints had been filed and that such action would continue. The association’s resolutions also provide for legal action against people who allegedly circulate defamatory, obscene or baseless content about artistes to attract viewers.

Latha honoured as Nadigar Sangam discusses members’ welfare

The meeting also focused on recognising senior artistes and strengthening measures concerning members’ professional interests. Latha received the Lifetime Achievement Award and recalled her association with the industry during the MGR and Sivaji Ganesan era. The association also discussed measures relating to agreements for lead artistes and payment timelines for background artistes. According to the resolutions, production companies will be required to enter formal agreements with members in certain circumstances, while background artistes are to receive their appropriate remuneration within a specified period.