A comparison between DMK chief MK Stalin's birthday wishes to Rahul Gandhi in 2025 and 2026 has reignited discussion over the collapse of the Congress-DMK alliance. Last year, Stalin described Rahul as a "brother-in-ideals", while this year he sent a brief and formal greeting. The change comes after Congress ended its alliance with the DMK and backed Vijay's TVK, which later formed the government in Tamil Nadu. The fallout has triggered public criticism from both sides, with DMK mouthpiece Murasoli attacking Rahul Gandhi. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Vijay referred to Rahul Gandhi as his "dear brother" in a warm birthday message.
