Thursday 17 April 2025
From Cinema to Politics: Vijay’s Plan to Reshape Tamil Nadu
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Tamil cinemas beloved superstar, Thalapathy Vijay has recently made a major announcement that has reverberated through the entertainment and political spheres of Tamil Nadu. In February 2024, the 49-year-old actor established his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), translating Tamil Nadu Victory Party.
His first political conference was held on October 27, 2024, in Vikravandi, Tamil Nadu, marking his official entry into politics. Vijays ambition is clear: he aims to run in the 2026 Assembly Elections in Tamil Nadu, challenging the ruling DMK led by MK Stalin.
Vijays political vision attempts to blend two often conflicting ideologies: Dravidam and Tamil Nationalism. Dravidam, an inclusive philosophy historically advocated by figures like Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, promotes social equality and secularism, without discrimination is based on language or ethnicity.
On the other hand, Tamil Nationalism tends to be more exclusive, focusing on the identity and culture of Tamil-speaking people. Vijays attempt to merge these philosophies has drawn criticism, with some viewing this blend as contradictory given Tamil Nadus complex political history.
Vijay has drawn inspiration from historical figures like Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, Dr B.R. Ambedkar, and K. Kamaraj throughout his political career. These leaders played significant roles in influencing the social and political landscape of Tamil Nadu. However, some critics contend that Vijays attempt to merge Periyars progressive ideals with Tamil Nationalism may undermine the core values of Dravidian politics.
Vijays foray into politics has attracted attention, especially from his large fan following. However, he faces major obstacles in Tamil Nadus intricate political landscape, particularly the DMK and AIADMK. Even with his substantial fame, Vijay must transcend his celebrity image to gain the trust needed to compete with established political figures.
Vijay has a well-defined support base, primarily consisting of his fan clubs and the youth from Dalit and Vanniyar communities. These groups are likely to pose a challenge to regional parties such as the VCK, PMK, and DMDK. With a loyal following established by his father, director S.A. Chandrasekhar, Vijays fan base may provide the necessary manpower for his political endeavors.
Vijays speech during the party launch indicated his desire to reshape the Dravidian political scene. He aims to rebuild the political stronghold from within, but this will require a more defined ideological position and the ability to maintain political momentum beyond his existing popularity.
Vijays path has a historical context. In 2017, actor Rajinikanth made a similar move by announcing his political ambitions, yet his party never materialized. His struggle to engage with Dravidian politics, along with health concerns, led him to step back from political ambitions. Similarly, actor Kamal Hassan faced setbacks with his political party, MNM which failed to achieve success in the 2021 elections despite initial expectations. Vijay aware of these obstacles, now faces the tough task of proving his ability to convert fame into political success.
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