Actor-turned-politician Vijay holds TVK's first rally

Months after establishing his political party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), Tamil cinema icon Vijay presented his political agenda and vision for Tamil Nadu during a highly anticipated public meeting on Sunday. He intended to run in the 2026 Assembly elections, generating excitement and injecting new energy into a political arena.

(ANI)

Tamil Nadu has a rich history of cinema stars moving into politics, from MGR to Karunanidhi, who began as a screenwriter, to actors like Sivaji Ganesan and K. Bhagyaraj. Vijay’s entry into politics continues this unique legacy, furthering the state's complex relationship between film and politics.(PTI)

Cutouts of Tamil Nadu’s historical leaders, such as Periyar, B.R. Ambedkar, and K. Kamaraj, at the event venue suggest Vijay’s alignment with socially progressive ideals. These figures are emblematic of Tamil Nadu’s struggle for social justice and equality, reflecting the foundational principles of the TVK.(PTI)

The actor-turned-politician made a grand entry on Sunday evening as thousands of TVK cadres and fans cheered him on. He walked down a long ramp built at the center of the massive ground on V Salai, while enthusiastic fans and cadres threw party shawls at him, which he draped around his neck.

(PTI)

Vijay also advocated for proportional representation in education and employment, urging for a caste census to allocate resources fairly based on population. Additionally, TVK supports abolishing the governor's post.

(PTI)

The 50-year-old actor stated that the party is not an alternative force but rather the primary force aimed at transforming Tamil Nadu. At the beginning of the conference, Vijay hoisted the TVK flag on a 100-foot flagpole by pressing a button, accompanied by the party song featuring his voice.

(PTI)

The conference highlighted key points, stating that TVK would operate on a ‘secular social justice ideology.’ Its action plan includes women’s empowerment, state autonomy, a two-language policy, environmental conservation, and the protection of women, children, and the elderly.