The Spectacular Rise & Fall Of Astrologer Radhan Pandit

Radhan Pandit, a high-profile political astrologer, lasted as OSD to Tamil Nadu CM Joseph Vijay for barely 24 hours — appointed on May 12, removed the following day. Yes he was removed from the office as soon as Vijay overwhelmingly won the confidence vote— with a thumping 144 votes way beyond the support of his 106 MLAs. So, what is it with Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as he calls himself these days that he dominated the TN confidence debate proceedings? Political analysts are surprised that DMDK leader V Premalatha who first flagged the issue of Pandit’s appointment, should call for vigil to maintain “scientific temperament”. Her call may not reflect popular belief in astrology that prevails in the state where annual or decadal planetary transits usually makes headlines. In fact, there are temples dedicated for various planets and people from North India specifically travel to these spots such as Shani Dev Temple in Thirunallar for “griha shanti”.  Is the call for rationalism, a plan to kill astro spiritual tourism of Tamil Nadu under the TVK regime? Is it the design of Christian church against Hindu temples? Once close to the late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa, Radhan Pandit had to flee to Singapore to save himself from her wrath. He had predicted she would get relief in the Disproportionate Assets case. When she was convicted, Jayalalithaa was livid. It was at that point Vettrivel – then known as Erode Vettrivel—moved to Delhi and changed his name. He then tried to hoodwink BJP stalwart LK Advani by telling him that he would be next PM. It was Congress MP Karti Chidambaran who first questioned Raadan Pandit elevation with a subtle post on X “Caligula-Incitatus” referring to the 4th century Roman emperor Caligula’s affection for his favourite horse, Incitatus. Caligula had intended to make his horse consul.