Actor-turned-politician Vijay has emerged as the standout figure in the Tamil Nadu assembly election, with early results suggesting his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), is poised to reshape the state's political landscape.
TVK Pushes DMK, AIADMK to Margins
TVK is leading in 109 of the 234 constituencies, just short of the 118 seats required for a majority. Despite falling below the halfway mark, the party could still form the government with backing from smaller regional players. If confirmed, the result would mark a significant shift in Tamil Nadu politics, which has been dominated for decades by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
A Debut That Defies Precedent
This is Vijay's first electoral contest, and his strong showing challenges the long-held perception that film stars struggle to convert popularity into political success. His rise has drawn comparisons with past actor-politicians such as MG Ramachandran, J Jayalalithaa, and NT Rama Rao—all of whom successfully transitioned from cinema to positions of power. Analysts say Vijay's campaign appears to have resonated with younger voters and urban constituencies, tapping into discontent over corruption, nepotism and entrenched political dynasties. TVK's victory could also mark a historic shift, as Tamil Nadu may witness its first government outside the DMK and AIADMK dominance since June 1977.
Leads in Key Constituencies
Vijay is leading in Tiruchirappalli (East), where he has secured a margin of more than 6,000 votes over DMK's Inigo Irudayaraj after four rounds of counting. He is also ahead in Perambur, with a margin exceeding 10,000 votes against DMK candidate R D Shekar.
Rivals Trail Behind
According to early trends, AIADMK is leading in 64 seats, while DMK is ahead in 44. Other parties such as the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), Indian National Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party are trailing with single-digit leads.
Celebration and Security
Scenes of celebration have been reported outside TVK's headquarters in Chennai, with supporters gathering in large numbers, waving flags and distributing sweets. At Vijay's residence, family members were seen watching the results and celebrating as trends continued to favour the party. Security has also been increased in the area, with police personnel deployed as a precaution.
'Clear Mandate', Says Party
TVK leaders have described the outcome as a decisive rejection of established parties. Party spokesperson Felix Gerald said the results reflected public anger over "corruption, nepotism and family politics", adding that the party was confident of forming the government without the need for a coalition.
A Potential Turning Point
If the trends hold, Tamil Nadu could see its first government led by a party outside the DMK-AIADMK axis in nearly five decades. For now, the final outcome will depend on whether TVK can cross the majority mark on its own or secure post-poll support. Either way, Vijay's entry appears to have altered the state's political equation.
