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Chennai: ‘Animal’ director Sandeep Reddy Vanga praised Vijay after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), scripted a historic victory in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, saying cinema has great power.

Highlighting the influence of cinema on public life, Vanga took to his X handle and wrote, “This is what CINEMA can do, it can move people, shake systems, and turn presence into POWER. Here CINEMA stepping off the screen and owning the ground. Not hype. Not noise. Real power.…”

“My deepest heartfelt congratulations to @actorvijay sir and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam,” he added.

Following his political success, Vijay has now joined the ranks of legendary actor-turned-leaders such as N. T. Rama Rao, M. G. Ramachandran, and J. Jayalalithaa.

Soon, social media was flooded with congratulatory messages from several members of the film industry.

‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wrote, “Heartfelt congratulations to @actorvijay avru for writing a new chapter in Tamil Nadu’s political history. Wishing the state greater progress under your leadership and stronger public service. Your achievement is sure to inspire many more young people.”

‘Raja Shivaji’ actor Riteish Deshmukh stated: “The verdict is out !! Huge congratulations to @actorvijay on this incredible and monumental victory. May the force be with you, may you tirelessly work for the good of the people.”

Director Lokesh Kanagaraj, who directed Vijay in ‘Leo’ and ‘Master’ wrote, “Badass entry and a solid win @actorvijay na (fire emoticons) Wishing you all the very best on your new journey na.”

In February 2024, Vijay revealed his intention to enter the 2026 electoral race.

He subsequently launched the TVK and kicked off his campaign with a major public rally in October 2024.

Since then, he has been touring various parts of Tamil Nadu, holding rallies and personally presenting his manifesto to the public.

While his events have attracted huge crowds, one rally in Karur ended in tragedy when a stampede resulted in the loss of 41 lives.

Vijay chose not to ally with any national or regional party for his electoral debut, even as several of his contemporaries took a different route.

Filmmaker Sundar C contested in partnership with the AIADMK, while Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) aligned with the DMK ahead of the polls.

With Vijay now likely to step into the role of Tamil Nadu’s chief minister, he is expected to scale back his work in cinema. His final film ‘Jana Nayagan’ is still awaiting certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after facing delays since January.