Actor Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), drew large crowds for its first political conference on Sunday, 27 October, at Vikravandi in Tamil Nadu’s Viluppuram district. Despite the scorching heat, thousands of supporters gathered, with many using chairs to shield themselves from the sun. Reports indicated that six people required medical attention due to dehydration, and volunteers managed makeshift health camps to assist those affected. Complaints emerged about inadequate water supply for the massive turnout.
Vijay greeted his fans and party workers with enthusiasm, waving to the crowd as they cheered and waved TVK flags. The event was seen as a significant political statement, marking Vijay’s formal transition into politics. He had earlier announced the formation of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in February 2024, with plans to contest the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for 2026.
Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin extended his good wishes to Vijay, referring to him as a “dear friend” and expressing hope for his success in politics. Vijay addressed the conference, reiterating his commitment to the people of Tamil Nadu and outlining the party’s ideology, policies, and roadmap. “Our victorious political journey is being extended with the support and affection of the Tamil people,” Vijay said in a statement before the event.
“In terms of ideology, we are not going to separate Dravidian Nationalism and Tamil Nationalism. They are two eyes of this soil. We shouldn’t shrink ourselves to any specific identity. Secular Social Justice ideologies are our ideology and we going to act based on that. After reading the failures and successful stories in politics. I have left my career at the peak and that salary and I am here as your Vijay, trusting you all,” he told the workers in the meeting.
The actor-turned-politician aims to carve a space in the state’s political landscape, which has a rich history of film stars achieving significant political influence. Notable figures like M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) and J. Jayalalithaa became Chief Ministers, capitalising on their cinematic fame. More recent attempts by actors like Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth have met with limited success, underscoring the challenges of converting stardom into political power.
Vijay’s mass appeal and popularity as “Thalapathy” give him a strong starting point. With fans across the state and beyond, his entry into politics has sparked anticipation. However, his ability to build lasting political success will depend on grassroots support and strategic alliances in Tamil Nadu’s competitive political environment.
