Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam: All are equal by birth (TVK)
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), meaning “Victory Party of Tamilakam,” is a dynamic regional political force rooted in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Also established on February 2, 2024, by celebrated actor-turned-statesman Vijay, who also serves as its founding president, the party operates from its central headquarters in Chennai, symbolizing a new chapter in Tamil political leadership.
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam
From Fan Clubs to Political Cadre: The Rise of TVK
In the early 2000s, actor Vijay cultivated a vast network of fan clubs throughout Tamil Nadu. By 2009, these informal groups were unified under a structured welfare initiative called Narpani Iyakkam, designed to channel their energy into community service and philanthropic efforts. This movement was formally institutionalized as Vijay Makkal Iyakkam (Vijay’s People Movement) on 26 July 2009 in Pudukkottai.
Political Foray and Growing Influence
Initially supportive of the AIADMK-led alliance during the 2011 assembly elections, the Iyakkam maintained a relatively apolitical stance for years. However, Vijay’s socially charged film dialogues and public statements began drawing political attention.
In October 2021, the organization independently contested Tamil Nadu’s local body elections, securing an impressive 115 out of 169 seats. Vijay also voiced strong opposition to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, deeming it disruptive to India’s social and religious harmony.
Birth of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)
On 2 February 2024, Vijay officially launched his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), with plans to contest the 2026 state elections. This marked the transformation of his fan base—reportedly comprising over 85,000 clubs with at least 25 members each—into a formidable grassroots political force.
Leadership and Ideological Stand
As of September 2024, N. Anand serves as TVK’s General Secretary. In July, Vijay demanded a ban on NEET, citing its unfairness toward rural and underprivileged students. He also advocated for transferring education and sanitation from the Concurrent List to the State List.
Ideological Identity and Opposition
In September 2024, TVK declared its ideological commitment to left-of-centre principles, embracing Ambedkarism, Periyarism, and Marxism. The party distanced itself from right-wing ideologies and positioned itself in opposition to both the DMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP nationally.
First Political Conference and Vision
TVK’s inaugural political conference on 27 October 2024 in Vikravandi drew over 800,000 attendees. The event featured tributes to icons like Periyar, Ambedkar, Velu Nachiyar, and Kamaraj, underscoring the party’s ideological roots.
Vijay unveiled TVK’s doctrine of Secular Social Justice, emphasizing egalitarianism, secularism, democracy, and a two-language policy. He criticized the BJP as an “ideological opponent” and the DMK as a “political adversary” for alleged divisiveness and corruption, respectively. On 3 November, the party passed 26 resolutions targeting both central and state governments.
Youth Surge and Electoral Strategy
TVK’s rise has galvanized youth support, prompting legacy parties like DMK and AIADMK to recalibrate their strategies. On 13 February 2025, TVK announced a major organizational expansion, aiming to deploy over 70,000 booth-level agents across Tamil Nadu. This marked a strategic pivot from ideological outreach to electoral readiness.
Mobilization and Ethical Politics
During a cadre meeting in Coimbatore on 26 April 2025, Vijay urged party workers to recruit new members and uphold integrity. He pledged to build a transparent, corruption-free government and emphasized earning public trust through genuine service.
Induction and Professionalization
On 9 June 2025, TVK hosted a mass induction at its Panaiyur headquarters in Chennai. Former MLAs, retired officials, and members of other parties joined in the presence of Vijay.
Notably, ex-IRS officer K.G. Arunraj was appointed General Secretary for Propaganda and Policy Development, signaling a move toward professionalizing the party’s structure.
Second Conference and Vijay’s Candidacy
At TVK’s second conference in Madurai on 21 August 2025, themed History of Victory Returns, Vijay declared his candidacy for the 2026 elections. He labeled the BJP as “fascist” and the DMK as “corrupt”, accusing Chief Minister M.K. Stalin of electoral collusion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Vijay pledged to prioritize the welfare of marginalized groups, including women, youth, farmers, and trans persons. He also called for reclaiming Katchatheevu Island from Sri Lanka to protect Tamil fishermen.
Prominent members – TVK
President – Vijay
General Secretary – N. Anand
Election Campaign Management General Secretary – Aadhav Arjuna
Propaganda & Policy General Secretary – K. G. Arunraj
Deputy General Secretary – CTR. Nirmal Kumar
Treasurer – P. Venkataramanan
Headquarters Secretary – Rajasekar
Propaganda secretary – Rajmohan
Joint Propaganda Secretary – Thahira
Joint General Secretary – C.Vijayalakshmi
TVK President – Vijay
Born in Madras to director S. A. Chandrasekhar, Vijay embarked on his cinematic journey at a tender age, making his debut as a child actor in the Tamil film “Vetri” (1984). Growing up amidst the glitz and glamour of the film industry, he honed his skills with several roles in his father’s movies.
However, it was in 1992, at the age of 18, that he stepped into the spotlight with his maiden lead role in “Naalaiya Theerpu.”
The initial years of Vijay’s career saw him navigating through a series of lead roles, experiencing a blend of successes and setbacks. Noteworthy among these were films like “Poove Unakkaga,” “Love Today,” “Kadhalukku Mariyadhai,” “Thulladha Manamum Thullum,” and “Kushi.”
In recognition of his contributions to the industry, Vijay was honored with the prestigious Kalaimaamani award by the Government of Tamil Nadu in 1998.
However, it was in 2003 that Vijay attained a milestone with the release of “Ghilli,” which not only broke box office records but also became the first Tamil film to gross over ₹500 million. Subsequent successes with films like “Thirupaachi” and “Pokkiri” solidified his position as one of the leading and commercially successful actors in Tamil cinema.
Despite encountering a period of moderate success, Vijay’s career witnessed a resurgence in the late 2010s with a string of critically and commercially acclaimed films, including “Thuppakki,” “Kaththi,” and “Sarkar.”
Also, his ability to seamlessly blend action, drama, and social relevance in his roles garnered widespread acclaim, earning him numerous awards and accolades as an actor.
Affectionately referred to as “Thalapathy,” meaning commander, by his ardent fans, Vijay enjoys a massive and dedicated following.
In a significant announcement in February 2024, Vijay declared his retirement from films and his foray into politics with the launch of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
Also, this transition from reel to real-life endeavors signifies Vijay’s commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond the silver screen. As he embarks on this new chapter, his fans continue to extend their unwavering support, eagerly anticipating the next phase of “Thalapathy’s” journey as a public figure and leader.
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