In a comprehensive interview, DMK's youth wing secretary and Sports Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, opened up about his political evolution, the massive expansion of the party's youth base, and the upcoming electoral landscape in Tamil Nadu. He addressed questions ranging from his family's film industry legacy to the ideological battle against the BJP.
Embracing the Political Mantle and Family Legacy
When asked if his family's long association with the Tamil film industry was an advantage, Udhayanidhi Stalin drew a clear distinction. He stated that while some political activists use films for ideology, and others leverage cinematic fame for politics, the people of Tamil Nadu do not vote for cine glamour alone. Their choices, he emphasized, are driven by party ideology, governance records, and candidates. He affirmed that despite the film background, his family's primary commitment has always been to public service and people's welfare.
Reflecting on his political entry, he noted a significant shift in perspective since 2019. He has learned to embrace the pressure of high expectations, transforming it into a positive journey. He now views politics as a conscious choice to protect Tamil Nadu from external dangers, citing his work in strengthening the youth wing and implementing welfare schemes as key responsibilities he is committed to fulfilling.
Electoral Rivals and Alliance Dynamics
On the question of the DMK's most powerful rival in the upcoming assembly election, Udhayanidhi stated he sees no strong rival at this point. He acknowledged the AIADMK as the historical principal opposition but described it in its current state as an "engine-less car being dragged by the BJP." He contrasted the DMK's alliance, which he called inclusive and bound by shared ideology and mutual respect, with the NDA, where he claimed decisions are made unilaterally in Delhi and forced upon Tamil Nadu parties.
He strongly endorsed Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's statement that "those who come to Tamil Nadu with arrogance will be defeated," made in the context of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks. Udhayanidhi asserted the DMK is ready to face the BJP and all its "B teams," accusing the national party of a conspiracy to defame the state and its Dravidian model government.
Youth Power and Ideological Relevance
A major highlight of the interview was the explosive growth of the DMK's youth wing. Udhayanidhi revealed that under his charge, membership has skyrocketed from 6,000 to a staggering 5 lakh functionaries. This translates to roughly six functionaries per polling booth, or one for every 50 households, aiming for a presence in every village and street.
He sees this as an infusion of fresh blood that will make the younger generation politically aware to protect Tamil Nadu's uniqueness. He believes a party with a clear, executable vision connects with young voters, pointing to the DMK government's flagship schemes like 'Naan Mudhalvan', 'Pudhumai Penn', and 'Tamil Pudhalvan' as direct responses to youth aspirations in education and employment.
Contrary to perceptions, Udhayanidhi argued that political ideology is highly relevant to Gen Z. He observed many youngsters are attracted to Periyar's ideas of inclusivity, freedom, and fairness. For them, ideology must translate into action—a principle he claims the DMK follows by converting objectives of equality and social justice into tangible schemes and policies.
On internal party dynamics, he expressed humility when compared to stalwarts like M. Karunanidhi and his father, M.K. Stalin. He described Karunanidhi's defining trait as an indomitable fighting spirit for Dravidian principles, while praising Chief Minister Stalin for his relentless hard work and perfectionism. As for his own prospects, Udhayanidhi expressed confidence that the party leadership, with its history of empowering young leaders, will continue to provide opportunities for the youth in the upcoming elections.
