The 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly election results stunned many observers as actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) emerged as the single largest party in the state. TVK has triggered a major political upheaval in Tamil Nadu by surpassing both the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the two dominant parties that have shaped the state’s politics for decades.
'The well-being of our people remains our only goal'
On Tuesday, Vijay released his first statement following the party’s election win. Posting on his X account, he replied to PM Narendra Modi, stressing collaboration and underscoring that public welfare is the administration’s foremost priority.Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a message on X expressing his gratitude to the voters of Tamil Nadu who backed the NDA in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections. He affirmed that they would continue to lead efforts to address public concerns and enhance people’s lives. He also congratulated TVK on its strong performance and assured that the central government would make every possible effort to advance Tamil Nadu’s development and promote the welfare of its people.
Vijay replied, “Thank you, Hon'ble @PMOIndia, for your wishes. The welfare of our people is our sole priority. Rising above politics, we will concentrate on the State’s development and the well-being of the people of Tamil Nadu. We anticipate the Union Government’s support in this effort.”
Vijay also replied to Rahul Gandhi’s message on his X account. He wrote, “My heartfelt thanks to the Honorable Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha for the call and warm wishes. We will stay dedicated to delivering excellence in public service and to safeguarding the cultural ethos of our state, which depends on collective cooperation. Above politics, our foremost priority will be the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu.”
Vijay’s ascent to power marks a historic turning point, as Tamil Nadu is set to have its first government beyond the DMK and AIADMK’s dominance since June 1977. His triumph has overturned long-standing assumptions that actors face difficulties in successfully entering politics, placing Vijay alongside legendary actor-turned-leaders such as NT Rama Rao, MG Ramachandran, and J Jayalalithaa.
Before contesting his first election, Vijay declined to ally with any national or regional party, even though many of his peers did so. Filmmaker Sundar C entered the fray in partnership with the AIADMK, while Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) formed an alliance with the DMK just ahead of the polls. With Vijay now seen as a likely contender for the next Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, he is expected to step away from his film career. His final movie, Jana Nayagan, is still awaiting CBFC certification after facing delays since January.
