After prolonged speculation and anticipation, Tamil actor Joseph Vijay, widely known as Thalapathy, has taken the plunge into politics by announcing the formation of his political party ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Vijay, among the highest-paid actors in the industry, has been known for deferring his entry into politics after consulting with fans before each election. Allegedly, his parents, film director SA Chandrasekhar and mother Shoba, were opposed to his political entry, expressing concerns about financial implications. This move by Vijay, who stands next to superstar Rajinikant in terms of costliness, adds a significant dynamic to Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
The actor has had a historical cold war with the ruling DMK, and the ongoing standoff raises expectations that Vijay might take an anti-DMK stance in the upcoming parliamentary elections. Last September, the audio launch of Vijay’s film “Leo” was postponed, sparking speculation among his fans and Thalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam (TVMI) functionaries. Fans condemned the DMK government using hashtags like #WeStandWithLeo and #DMKfearsThalapathyVijay, citing disruptions during Vijay’s previous films. Some fans expressed confidence in Vijay’s growth despite political hurdles, while others accused an insecure DMK of using political power against Vijay’s political ambitions.
Throughout his career, Vijay has faced obstacles during the shooting, release, and promotion of his films. Examples include controversies around titles, subtitles, and political dialogues. His films, such as “Puthiya Geethai” (2003), “Kavalan” (2011), “Thuppakki” (2012), “Thalaiva” (2013), “Kaththi” (2014), “Puli” (2015), “Theri” (2016), “Mersal” (2017), “Sarkar” (2018), “Bigil” (2019), “Master” (2021), and “Beast” (2022), have all faced various challenges, including income tax raids, bans, and controversies. The fans have stood by Vijay through thick and thin, expressing unwavering support on social media.
#Beast is banned by the Ministry of Information in #Kuwait
Reason could be Portrayal of Pak, Terrorists or Violence
Recently Indian Movies #Kurup and #FIR were banned in #Kuwait
Of late, #Kuwait Censor is becoming very strict in GCC compared to other countries in the region
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) April 5, 2022
In a two-and-a-half-page statement issued on February 2nd, Vijay outlined the party’s stance, stating that it would not contest the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Instead, the focus is on the 2026 Assembly polls.
Vijay clarified in the release, “We are not going to contest the 2024 elections, and we are not going to support any party. We have made this decision after the General and Executive Council Meeting. 2026 is our goal. After getting approval from the Election Commission of India (ECI) and following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, we will decide upon the party’s symbol, flag, ideologies, policies, and engage in meet-and-greet sessions with the people. The proper beginning of our political journey will commence then.”
The actor emphasised the seriousness of his political commitment, stating that politics is not just a hobby for him; it is his deepest passion and a sacred people’s work. He expressed a desire to fully devote himself to politics, emphasising that he has been preparing for this role for an extended period.
Vijay’s decision not to contest the 2024 elections and refrain from supporting any other political party during this period reflects a strategic approach to lay the groundwork for the party’s formal launch. Currently in the process of registering the party, Vijay acknowledged the time required for the necessary groundwork.
#தமிழகவெற்றிகழகம் #TVKVijay pic.twitter.com/ShwpbxNvuM
— TVK Vijay (@TVKVijayHQ) February 2, 2024
In a detailed statement spanning two and a half pages, Vijay conveyed the party’s decision not to support any other political party during the 2024 elections. Instead, they plan to concentrate on the 2026 elections after gaining approval from the Election Commission of India (ECI). The party will decide on symbols, flags, ideologies, policies, and engage in meet-and-greet sessions with the public post the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Addressing the motivation behind the political plunge, Vijay pointed out the need for political power to transform initiatives like Vijay Makkal Iyakkam into comprehensive political, social, and economic reform entities. He highlighted the challenges posed by administrative malpractices, corruption, and divisive politics based on race, caste, and religion in the current political scenario of the state.
Vijay expressed the vision of creating an outfit aligned with the Constitution, laws of the land, and dedicated to protecting the rights of Tamil Nadu. Emphasising equality for all residents of the state, he underlined the importance of a selfless, transparent, and long-vision-oriented administration free from corruption, operating on egalitarian principles.
Explaining his motivation, Vijay stated, “After my father and mother, the Tamil people are the ones who have given me everything, including my name, fame, and money. And I have been waiting to give it back to them for a long time. Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam will be the party led by me.”
The actor expressed gratitude to the people of Tamil Nadu, considering his entry into politics as a debt of gratitude. Thalapathy Vijay outlined the party’s commitment to preparing fans as active party workers, providing necessary training and knowledge about the organizational system. The objective is to ensure that party members function in accordance with party laws, with party functionaries elected through democratic means.
As the news circulates, it is reported that Vijay has been chosen as the party’s leader during the Vijay Makkal Iyakkam meeting, where the general secretary and treasurer roles were also determined. The move by the popular actor into formal politics is expected to bring a new dimension to Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, given his massive fan base and significant influence in the state.
