CHENNAI, May 5: Indian actor Vijay has pulled in a “shock” victory in the Tamil Nadu state election, with his party (TVK) garnering more than hundred seats against his more established rival parties, DMK (62), ADMK (61), but remaining about 10 short of the majority needed to form the government.
A total of 234 seats were contested statewide and local media has reported that Vijay has sought two weeks to get the majority needed.
His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), was founded by the actor-turned politician in February 2024.
His win is unprecedented in Tamil Nadu for a regional party to garner a majority number of votes in a state election in its very first contest and within a short period of establishment, according to local media. A feat said to be enjoyed only by the late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MG Ramachandran (MGR).
MGR was however expected to win the very first time he contested a seat, while Vijay’s win has had some doubts despite the huge fan base he enjoys in Tamil Nadu.
Vijay, famously nicknamed “Thalapathy” (meaning “commander” or “leader”) by his fans, was also recently embroiled in a scandal when his wife filed for divorce, alleging an affair with a fellow actor. The case is pending in court.
Nevertheless, his party has continued to enjoy support mostly from his movie fans and the younger generation seeking a change in the governance of Tamil Nadu. His party, which focuses on social justice, secularism, and Tamil pride, held its first major conference in October 2024, aiming to challenge existing political dynamics in the state.
In Malaysia, Thalapathy Vijay enjoys an enormous and intensely devoted fan base, with his presence often igniting overwhelming excitement and frenzy. For many fans – especially within the local Tamil community- he transcends the role of a typical actor, earning recognition as both a “global superstar” and a “mass hero.”
–WE