Actor C. Joseph Vijay’s political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), made a remarkable debut in the 17th Tamil Nadu Assembly election, emerging as the single largest party with 108 seats. The outcome marks a significant shift in the State’s political landscape, long dominated by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
However, TVK fell short of the majority mark of 118 seats in the 234-member Assembly by 10 seats, prompting post-poll negotiations to form the government.
The party’s performance was underpinned by a strong vote share of approximately 35 per cent, garnering over 1.6 crore votes across regions, communities, and religious groups. Vijay himself contested from two constituencies — Perambur and Tiruchi East — and won both seats.
Vijay is expected to meet the newly elected MLAs, as discussions on the next steps gather pace.
If Vijay goes on to become Chief Minister, his rapid political rise would draw comparisons with N.T. Rama Rao, who came to power in Andhra Pradesh in 1983 soon after entering politics. Vijay’s ascent is notable for its speed, given his lack of prior political experience.
Likened to former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), Vijay appears to have exceeded his predecessor’s early political impact. While MGR’s victory in 1977 followed years of political engagement, Vijay has achieved a substantial mandate in his very first electoral contest, securing close to 35 per cent of the vote.
Several prominent voices from the film industry extended their wishes to actor-turned-politician Vijay following his party’s landmark electoral win in Tamil Nadu, with messages continuing to pour in from across industries.
Actor and politician Kamal Haasan posted on X, congratulating Vijay, “My congratulations to the leader of the victorious Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, Thiru. Vijay and the members of his party, who have earned the people’s trust and achieved a great victory in their very first election. My best wishes for their public service to flourish."
Superstar Rajinikanth wrote, “My congratulations to Thiru Vijay, President of the victorious Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, and to the members of his party, on their resounding victory in the recently concluded Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections.
Malayalam superstar Mammootty too wished Vijay on his victory. “Wishing you strength and vision as you step forward to lead the state,” he wrote on X.
Actor Dhanush praised Vijay, writing, “My heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Vijay sir and the Tamil Nadu Victory Kazhagam, who, in their very first election, have earned the immense support and love of the people of Tamil Nadu and are set to form the government (sic)”
Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu wrote, “Hearty congratulations
@actorvijay on setting new benchmarks and achieving a stunning victory!!! Today reflects the faith people have placed in you in large measure… I’m certain this victory will translate into meaningful progress for Tamil Nadu.”
Actor Ram Charan also extended his wishes, stating, “Hearty congratulations to @actorvijay Garu on a remarkable victory in the TN elections. Your vision and connect with the people have truly resonated. Wishing you great success in leading Tamil Nadu towards continued progress.”
”History didn’t just happen…it chose its moment,” wrote actor Silambarasan TR while congratulating the TVK leader.
Actor Rashmika Mandanna shared her excitement, writing, “Congratulationssssss @actorvijay sirrrr!! Extremely happy for you and excited to see you in this new era! All the very bestest to you sir"
Actor Pooja Hegde, his Jana Nayagan co-star, posted, “OMGGG. Congratulationssss @actorvijay sir. This Thalapathy Kacheri is just getting bigger and bigger. Onwards and upwards only."
Sivakarthikeyan, who also appeared in Vijay’s The Greatest of All Time in a cameo, wrote, “Congratulations to Vijay sir for creating such a huge impact among the people in his very first electoral contest and achieving this victory It’s an added joy that you hail from the film industry, and best wishes for your public service, sir."
Director Venkat Prabhu, who helmed Vijay in The Greatest of All Time, shared a video featuring the TVK flag along with a still of Vijay from the film.
Meanwhile, actor Karthi took to his official X handle to congratulate Vijay: "A truly historic victory, powered by the immense love and belief people have in you.”
Actor Ravi Mohan also lauded Vijay’s achievement, writing, “This is not just a victory, it is a revolution sealed with trust. We are always with you na.”