Tamil actor Vijay announces entry into politics through new party Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam

Declaring his entry into the world of politics, Tamil superstar Vijay has announced the name of his new political party Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam on Friday.

Vijay will contest 2026 Assembly Elections in Tamil Nadu, when the current term of MK Stalin-led DMK party ends. The Tamil movie superstar is fondly called by his fans as Thalapathy, meaning General or Commander.

The actor made the decision public through a post on social media platform X. The name Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam loosely translates to "Tamil Nadu Victory Party". The party's flag, symbol and other plans will be revealed after recognition from the Election Commission.


"I have decided to complete the film I have already committed to, without affecting the party work and completely involve myself in the politics of public service. I consider this as my gratitude towards the people of Tamil Nadu," Vijay said.

Vijay, 49, said that that his party, as decided in its recent General Council and Executive Council meetings, will refrain from participating in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and will not extend support to any other candidates either.


Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, social media was rife with rumours of the Bharatiya Janata Party tying up with the superstar to make inroads into the state of Tamil Nadu. However, the actor never officially commented on his intentions to participate in politics.

"People of Tamil Nadu are yearning for a political movement that would pave the way for a selfless, transparent, visionary and efficient administration that is free of corruption, and caste and religious differences," he said.

Political analyst and Director, Centre for Policy and Development Studies, C Rajeev told IANS, “Vijay has the top fan base in Tamil Nadu, just a little below Rajinikanth and in the days to come with his political party, he will emerge stronger. The BJP is likely to align itself with Vijay and this would be a formidable combination for the BJP to win in Tamil Nadu.”

The state of Tamil Nadu is no stranger to actors and actresses joining mainstream politics. Former Chief Ministers MG Ramachandran (MGR), Kalaignar Karunanidhi, and Dr J Jayalalithaa, hailed from the Tamil film industry. While MGR and Jayalalithaa shot to fame as actors, Karunanidhi gained significant success as a prolific scriptwriter.

Current chief minister MK Stalin, son of Karunanidhi, acted in three movies and in a popular television serial. Stalin's son Udhayanidhi Stalin is the current Minister for Sport Development and Youth Welfare in the state. He too was prominent actor in Tamil Nadu.

Renowned actor Kamal Haasan too runs a political party, known as Makkal Needhi Maiam.