The battle of Tamil Nadu has already begun with new players like actor Vijay challenging the might of veteran politicians in the southern state. Now in a statement that could even change the outcome of the next year’s assembly elections, legendary actor Rajinikanth has openly backed Chief Minister MK Stalin. He called Stalin his friend and “emerging star of Indian politics”.
At an event of the Tamil Nadu government in Chennai, where music maestro Isaignani Ilaiyaraaja was also felicitated, the Kollywood superstar made the statement.
He spoke in detail on working with Ilaiyaraaja and his immense experience. Continuing his address, he praised the Chief Minister, saying he was a “friend” to him.
“My friend and honorable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu,” Rajinikanth said, adding that Stalin is the ” emerging star of Indian politics” who has challenged old and new parties. The remark came on a day when Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay began his statewide tour.
Vijay’s tour of state
In what could be seen as his first major move ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, TVK chief actor Vijay on Saturday began his statewide political tour in Tiruchirappalli. He called Trichy a “turning point in Tamil Nadu’s political history”, adding that he was beginning his journey from a land symbolising “Periyar, secularism and communal amity.”
Trichy is the same place from where Annadurai contested in 1956 and MGR held his first major conference in 1974.
Addressing a rally here, Vijay slammed the Stalin-led DMK government for failing to deliver on its 505 election promises. He reminded the government of promises like Rs 3 diesel price cut, waiver of student loans, 40% reservation for women in government jobs, filling of 2 lakh vacancies, and restoration of the old pension scheme.
“What happened to all these promises?” he questioned, while addressing people.
He also highlighted the core agenda of his party and said they would not compromise on women’s safety and law and order. “…we will only promise what is practical and possible,” he said, drawing loud cheers from supporters.
Tamil Nadu’s battle
TVK is the new entrant into Tamil Nadu politics which is taking against the ruling DMK, opposition AIADMK, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress. The battle will be a prestige fight for all, especially for the BJP and Congress.
The saffron party plans to make some inroads to gain ground in the southern state, while Congress would be looking to win big this time. TVK’s Vijay has denied alliance with any party, making the assembly elections more intense and interesting.
The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly is the unicameral legislature and it has a strength of 234 members.