Actor Vijay officially unveiled the flag of his newly formed political party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TMK), at the party secretariat in Panaiyur on Thursday. 

The event, which also featured the release of the party's anthem composed by Thaman with lyrics by Vivek, has fueled widespread speculation about Vijay's political ambitions.

Vijay, one of Tamil Nadu's biggest and highest-paid stars, announced the formation of Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam in February 2024. With a career spanning over 67 films and a massive fan base, Vijay is positioning his party against corruption and divisiveness in politics.

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Actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam President Vijay unveils party's flag at party headquarters | Photo: PTI
Actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam President Vijay unveils party's flag at party headquarters | Photo: PTI

During the event, Vijay expressed his commitment to equality and justice. "We will honour those who fought for our country's liberation and the countless soldiers who tirelessly defended the rights of our people from Tamil soil," he said. "I will work to eliminate differences based on caste, religion, gender, and place of birth. My goal is to create awareness and ensure equal opportunities and rights for all."

Vijay’s party is set to contest the Tamil Nadu assembly elections in 2026, marking his formal entry into the political arena.

Vijay joins a long list of Tamil cinema stars who have made the jump to politics, including:

Kamal Haasan

Founded Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) on February 21, 2018. Haasan became politically active after Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s death, criticizing the ruling AIADMK on various issues. He has consistently opposed religious-right-wing forces and supported non-violent, rationalist ideals, though his party has yet to make a significant impact.

Seeman

Launched Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) in 2010.

Sarathkumar

Established All India Samathuva Makkal Katchi (AISMK) in July 2007. He briefly served as an MLA after aligning with AIADMK but later merged his party with the BJP.

Vijayakanth

Formed Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) in 2005, presenting himself as an alternative to DMK and AIADMK. He gained notable support in the 2006 and 2009 elections and served as Leader of the Opposition from 2011 to 2016.

Karthik

The son of veteran actor R. Muthuraman, Karthik launched Ahila India Naadalum Makkal Katchi (AINK) in 2009 after his stint with the All India Forward Bloc.

K. Bhagyaraj

After launching the MGR Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (MGR MMK) in 1989, he later joined AIADMK and DMK but eventually stepped away from active politics.

T. Rajendherr

An actor-director and music composer, Rajendherr founded multiple parties; Thayaga Marumalarchi Kazhagam (TMK) and Akila India Latchiya DMK (AILD) before returning to DMK, where he was elected as an MLA in 1996.

Sivaji Ganesan

Founded Thamizhaga Munnetra Munnani (TMM) in 1988 after leaving Congress, but his political career ended when the party merged with Janata Dal.

M.G. Ramachandran (MGR)

One of Tamil Nadu's most successful actor-politicians, MGR founded All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in 1972 after splitting from DMK. He served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu from 1977 until his death in 1987.