In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through Tamil Nadu’s political and entertainment spheres, Tamil film superstar Vijay has taken a definitive plunge into politics. The actor, widely known as Thalapathy (Commander) among his fervent fan base, announced the formation of his new political party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam, marking a significant departure from his long-standing reticence.
Vijay’s decision to step into the political arena has been a subject of speculation for quite some time, with many attributing it to his ambitious father and renowned film director, S A Chandrasekhar. While the actor distanced himself from his father, the first clear indication of his political plans emerged last June during a student rally in Chennai. There, he encouraged school students to persuade their parents not to accept cash for votes and advocated for an understanding of key leaders such as B R Ambedkar, Periyar E V Ramasamy, and K Kamaraj.
At 49, Vijay is notably younger than the average politician in the state, aligning him with a cohort of young leaders that includes DMK’s Udhayanidhi Stalin (46) and state BJP president K Annamalai (38). Despite his age, Vijay’s mass appeal, particularly among the youth, and a well-organized fan base in Kerala and Karnataka are expected to give his political venture a wide regional reach.
While Vijay is often regarded as second only to Rajinikanth in terms of his mass appeal in the Tamil film industry, his off-screen persona has long been characterized by shyness, a trait seemingly at odds with his on-screen action-hero image. His entry into politics signals a transformative chapter in his career and a departure from the carefully crafted public image he has maintained throughout his cinematic journey.
The actor’s decision to make his potential political debut in the 2026 Assembly polls rather than the upcoming Lok Sabha elections underscores a meticulous approach to his political entry. Joining a storied list of actor-turned-politicians in Tamil Nadu, including M G Ramachandran, Sivaji Ganesan, Jayalalithaa, the late Captain Vijayakanth, and Kamal Haasan, Vijay aims to leave an indelible mark on the state’s political landscape.
As Thalapathy ventures into this new arena, the anticipation among his fans and political observers alike is palpable. His ability to leverage his popularity and connect with the masses could reshape the political dynamics not only in Tamil Nadu but also in the neighboring states where his influence has already taken root. The stage is set for Thalapathy to wield his cinematic charisma in the political arena, as he embarks on a journey that promises to be as captivating as his on-screen performances.