Actor Vijay enters political arena as TVK eyes impact in Tamil Nadu polls

Actor Vijay has entered Tamil Nadu politics with his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam and is preparing for his first Assembly election. While his fan base and youth appeal are strengths, the Karur stampede controversy and lack of organisational depth pose challenges

Chennai: Actor Vijay’s political entry, much like his appearances in films, was packed with suspense and expectations among a multitude of his followers. But the tragic stampede in Karur that claimed 41 lives on September 27, 2025 brought the spotlight on several issues, leading to the state government framing SOPs for conducting political meetings and rallies.

Nearly five months after the stampede, Vijay, facing a CBI probe over the incident, is currently involved in interviewing the TVK party candidates for the upcoming Assembly election.

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The 51-year-old leader of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, who will be making his maiden electoral foray ahead of the April 23 election, has already announced that the poll battle will be only between the TVK and DMK and that others hardly matter.

STRENGTHS:
1.Vijay’s charisma, established fan base and support among young voters will play a crucial role in tilting the scales in favour of the TVK.

2.Social justice, an egalitarian society and a two language policy outline TVK’s ideology, conforming to Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian pitch.

3.He announced the “super six” poll promises for women, including six free LPG cylinders and monthly financial aid.

WEAKNESSES:
1.Vijay is a political novice and faces criticism that he delivers political speeches like he delivers dialogues in films.

2.Virtual one-man show: For the present, he is the only star campaigner for his party.

3.The TVK meet invariably draws frenzied fan crowds, often leading to road accidents and bringing bad publicity.

OPPORTUNITIES:
1.He hopes to cash in on a huge vacuum for a strong non-Dravidian party to serve as an alternative to both the DMK and AIADMK in the state.

2.The party targets young voters and the tech savvy community. Voters tired of the traditional Dravidian giants — the DMK and AIADMK — may prefer TVK.

THREATS:
1.The Karur tragedy is a significant setback to the TVK affecting its poll prospects.

2.Vijay, for now, has opted to go alone in facing the election.

3.The party faces tough competition from established players AIADMK and DMK which are strong in organisational structure.