Vijay’s party, TVK’s, first conference chose to highlight icons like BR Ambedkar, Periyar, freedom fighters Velu Nachiyar, Anjalai Ammal, and late CM Kamaraj.
Published Oct 26, 2024 | 12:03 PM ⚊ Updated Oct 26, 2024 | 12:03 PM
Cutouts of Vijay with political leaders at Vikravandi
Preparations for Thamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK)’s first conference, set to take place on Sunday, 27 October, are in full swing. The conference that marks Vijay’s political entry, set to take place near Vikravandi in Villupuram, has drawn both excitement and speculation from all quarters.
Vijay’s political ideology and strategy, expected to be unveiled in the first conference, are awaited eagerly by all — supporters and rivals — ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections in 2026.
With symbols marking Tamil identity, cutouts of Dravidian leaders and icons of social justice prominently displayed, Vijay’s debut appears aimed at merging social justice and Tamil nationalism. The intersectionality is what incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) professes as its own ideology.
Vijay launched his party in February this year. On 22 August, the actor unveiled his party’s two-coloured flag — red on top and bottom with yellow in the centre.
It was infused with cultural references to Tamil Nadu and the language, including the Vagai flower – historically used as a symbol of victory. Calling politics a “holy service” to the public rather than a career, Vijay had expressed that his entry into politics is not for personal gain.
The party’s anthem, released on the same day, hinted at his political ideology. Committing to uphold equality for all living beings, TVK’s anthem vouched to work towards equal opportunities for everyone, and act as champions of unity, brotherhood, religious harmony, and equality.
“We will always appreciate the fighters who fought and sacrificed their life for the liberation of our country and countless soldiers who fought tirelessly for the rights of people from Tamil soil,” read the pledge.
After unveiling the flag, Vijay and party members pledged to removing “differences in the name of caste, religion, gender, and place of birth, create awareness among the people and strive for equal opportunities and equal rights for all.”
The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (@tvkvijayhq) administrators have released their pledges, affirming their commitment to the principles of equality, unity, and justice.
They have vowed to uphold equality for all living beings, work towards equal opportunities for everyone, and act… pic.twitter.com/MUJx78GzgP
— South First (@TheSouthfirst) August 22, 2024
Known for his extensive fan following, Vijay’s first conference chose to highlight leaders like BR Ambedkar, Thanthai Periyar, freedom fighters Velu Nachiyar, Anjalai Ammal, and late CM Kamarajar.
Political analysts and observers alike have taken it to be a symbolic commitment to Tamil heritage and social justice.
A Dalit activist and Ambedkarite, Shalin Maria Lawrence told South First that this has significant impact in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
“It’s a bold move, and we can appreciate that Vijay has openly put up cutouts of Ambedkar, Periyar, and others who embody resistance and reform. We activists and Dalit reformers have voiced such concerns over the years, and it’s good to see him noticing and taking a bold step forward,” she said.
She added that it is a symbolism that cannot be ignored and “It is something Tamil Nadu can appreciate.”
AIADMK IT wing leader Sathyan acknowledged Vijay’s popularity but stressed that it is “too early to comment.”
Talking to South First, he said, “Anyone can enter politics in a democracy, therefore it’s worthwhile to watch what Vijay has to offer as he already has a sizable following. These are his first steps, and his background in entertainment is largely responsible for the media’s intense attention on his conference. ”
However, Sathyan remarked that making significant political progress is a different story altogether.
Will Vijay’s move evolve into a substantial political initiative? DMK member Rajiv Gandhi opined that it remains to be seen.
“Political goals usually become clearer over time,” he noted, implying that while Vijay’s entry has sparked interest, it’s early to determine the depth of his political strategy.
“So far, it feels like a cultural gathering,” Rajiv Gandhi said, explaining that long-term impact may depend on sustained focus on policy and further development.
Political analyst Raveendran Duraiswamy provided a broad perspective on Vijay’s entry, noting the potential impact of his symbol-laden conference on Tamil Nadu’s political narrative.
“The choice to display Ambedkar, Periyar, and Tamil icons is a bold statement. But it’s too early to predict its impact on the DMK or the state’s politics overall. Vijay needs to establish credibility in the 2026 Assembly elections,” he told Sout First.
Though Tamil Nadu has a long history of celebrated actors entering politics, Duraiswamy noted that, “It remains to be seen whether he will follow in the footsteps of leaders like Vijayakanth or Sivaji Ganesan.”
Talking about advantages and challenges ahead for Vijay, Sumanth Raman said, “Despite his popularity in cinema, he is a newcomer to politics, a very different field.”
He noted to South First that the efforts Vijay takes to align with various communities across Tamil Nadu will be crucial in shaping his political identity. “Whether he’ll lean towards a Dravidian or nationalist ideology remains unclear. Engaging with the media directly will be essential as he establishes his direction and gains trust.”
(Edited by Neena)
