A new political chapter appears to have opened in Tamil Nadu with Vijay set to become the state’s next chief minister after the stunning rise of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in the Assembly elections.
The development marks a dramatic break from the decades-long dominance of the DMK and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu politics. Following days of post-poll discussions and alliance talks, Governor Rajendra Arlekar invited Vijay to form the government after TVK secured the support needed to cross the majority mark. The actor-turned-politician is expected to take oath in Chennai on Sunday, completing one of the most closely watched transitions in recent Indian politics.
For millions of fans, Vijay has long been more than a film star. Over the years, the actor carefully crafted an image that blended mass appeal with political messaging. Films such as Mersal, Sarkar and Leo often carried themes centred on governance, corruption, public welfare and social justice, fuelling speculation about his eventual political entry.
Unlike several actors before him, Vijay spent years quietly building a support structure beyond cinema. His fan clubs gradually evolved into organised welfare groups involved in social campaigns, relief work and local mobilisation across Tamil Nadu. Political observers now view that groundwork as a major factor behind TVK’s rapid rise.
Although TVK emerged as one of the biggest winners in the election, the party initially fell short of an outright majority. That forced Vijay into intense negotiations with potential allies as the deadline to form a government approached.
The breakthrough came after support from parties including the Congress, Left parties and the VCK helped TVK move past the required numbers. The alliance-building exercise also offered an early glimpse into Vijay’s political strategy and negotiating approach as he prepared for governance.
The oath-taking ceremony in Chennai is expected to attract huge crowds, with supporters travelling from different parts of the state to witness the occasion. Senior opposition leaders from across the country are also likely to attend, underlining the national attention surrounding Vijay’s emergence as a major regional force.
While the celebrations continue among his supporters, Vijay now faces the difficult challenge of transforming electoral momentum into stable governance. Running Tamil Nadu — one of India’s most industrialised and politically active states — will test whether his popularity can translate into long-term political leadership.
For the actor celebrated for delivering blockbuster openings throughout his film career, the spotlight now shifts from cinema screens to the corridors of power.
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