September 13, 2025 – Actor-turned-politician Vijay formally launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s (TVK) first statewide election campaign on Saturday, beginning his political tour from Tiruchi. The launch marks an important milestone for the newly established party as it prepares for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s most popular figures, entered politics earlier this year with the formation of TVK. His move to channel his fan base into political support has been widely discussed, and the campaign launch in Tiruchi drew massive crowds, reflecting the enthusiasm surrounding his political debut. Addressing supporters, Vijay stressed the importance of honest governance and pledged to prioritize transparency, youth empowerment, and social justice. He declared that his party’s mission is to restore the pride of Tamil Nadu and work towards inclusive growth.
The campaign will cover all major districts of Tamil Nadu in the coming months, with a focus on issues such as unemployment, educational reforms, women’s safety, and agricultural development. Party sources indicated that Vijay’s personal involvement in the tour will be central to expanding TVK’s reach, particularly in rural areas where organizational strength will be tested. Political analysts believe the 2026 elections could witness a triangular contest, with TVK challenging the traditional dominance of the DMK and AIADMK. They also note that Vijay’s presence could influence youth and first-time voters, a demographic that will play a crucial role in shaping the results.
The Tiruchi rally was marked by enthusiastic chants of “Vettri Namadhe” (Victory is Ours) from supporters, underscoring Vijay’s enduring popularity. His transition from a celebrated actor to a political leader has invited comparisons with M.G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa, two iconic figures who successfully bridged cinema and politics in Tamil Nadu. Political reactions to the launch, however, have been measured. A DMK spokesperson noted that while Vijay’s popularity is undeniable, elections are determined by governance and policy rather than star power. The AIADMK suggested that the rise of TVK could split opposition votes, which may indirectly benefit the ruling party.
With less than a year left before the assembly polls, the launch of this campaign is seen as a test of TVK’s organizational capabilities. Analysts point out that the party will need to build a strong cadre base, release a detailed manifesto, and potentially explore alliances to consolidate its position. The coming months are expected to reveal whether Vijay’s celebrity appeal can be effectively translated into sustained political success.
Vijay’s campaign launch in Tiruchi has set the stage for an intense election season in Tamil Nadu. As the state heads toward the 2026 assembly polls, the emergence of TVK adds a new dimension to the political landscape, and the party’s progress will be closely watched by both supporters and rivals.
