Leading Tamil actor-producer Suriya has often expressed his views on various social issues, while also speaking out against the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) exams on several occasions over the past few years. Condemning the need for the NEET exams, the actor had addressed in the past about suicides among students. Prior to the bill to scrap the NEET entrance examination in the Tamil Nadu Assembly getting passed on Monday, a few students had resorted to taking their own lives fearing the exam, which left many shocked and concerned for the future, with Chief Minister M. K. Stalin pleading young students not to end their lives out of fear for the exam. In that light, Suriya has now once again come out with a heartfelt statement addressing students to not end their lives as it will cause endless suffering to their near and beloved ones. 

In an emotional video released by Sun TV, we see Suriya narrating the ‘Achamillai Achamillai’ poem penned by legendary Tamil poet Subramania Bharati. Suriya says, “Students should be fearless and with belief in their actions.” He asks, “Was the fear that was there last week or last month, still there?” Suriya adds, “One exam is not bigger than your life. If you ever feel disheartened, consult your loved ones, friends, elders and teachers. All this pain will end in a short time. Taking your life will be a life-long punishment for your family members and loved ones.” 

Suriya narrates experiences from his own life and says, “I too have failed in many exams when I was young. I have gotten bad marks. And, as one among you, exams and marks are not the end. There is a lot that can be achieved. There are many of us here who are there to understand and love you all. If you have belief, you can win big!” Watch Suriya’s emotional statement in the video below: