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Dravidian politics still alive in TN? Vijay pays tribute to Periyar and Ambedkar after TVK’s historic win
ET Online | May 5, 2026 6:38 PM CST

Synopsis

Vijay tribute to Periyar: A day after Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) won 108 seats in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, actor-politician Vijay paid homage to social reformers Periyar E.V. Ramasamy and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The move signals TVK’s intent to align with Dravidian and social justice ideologies even as it prepares to form the next government.

Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian political tradition showed clear signs of continuity as Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay paid homage to social reformers Periyar E.V. Ramasamy and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on Tuesday, just a day after his party won 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly.

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Vijay Aligns with Dravidian and Social Justice Ideals

The actor-politician garlanded the statues of Periyar and Ambedkar in a deliberate outreach. Political observers see this as TVK’s attempt to position itself within the broader Dravidian and social justice ideological framework that has dominated Tamil Nadu for decades.

Kamal Haasan’s Message to MK Stalin

Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam founder Kamal Haasan also reacted on X. He described DMK president MK Stalin as a leader who “is not one to exult in victory or wilt in defeat” and said Stalin “will fight again and win again.”


Also read: May 10: Why Vijay’s TVK has only 5 days to form the new government in Tamil Nadu’s hung Assembly or else…

TVK Gears Up for Government Formation

TVK won 108 seats but remains 10 short of the 118-seat majority. The party is holding crucial meetings with winning candidates at its Panaiyur headquarters in Chennai. Security has been tightened around Vijay’s residence in Nilankarai and the party office amid large crowds of supporters. Senior leaders including General Secretary Aadhav Arjuna were present as Vijay arrived at the headquarters. A TVK supporter called the result a “much-needed change” in the state. With the current Assembly term ending on May 10, 2026, TVK has limited time to secure outside support and form the government.

(With ANI inputs)


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