Chennai: In a touching moment that stood out during the candidate announcement by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), actor-turned-politician Vijay named Sabarinathan, the son of his longtime driver-turned-personal assistant Rajendran, as the party’s candidate from the Virugambakkam Assembly constituency.

The announcement triggered an emotional scene, with Sabarinathan breaking down, touching Vijay’s feet and hugging him, as the TVK chief comforted him and wiped his tears. Rajendran, who has been associated with Vijay for years, was also seen getting teary-eyed during the moment.

Vijay announces candidates for all 234 seats

On Sunday, Vijay unveiled candidates for all 234 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu ahead of the April 23 elections. Marking his electoral debut, he announced that he will contest from two seats, Perambur in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli (East).

"It will be C Joseph Vijay from these two seats," the actor-politician announced emphatically amid loud cheers at a meeting of party functionaries held at a five-star hotel in the city.

Introducing nominees for the remaining 232 seats, including members of his core team, Vijay stressed that his selections were based on their commitment to the public.

"I have selected candidates who will stand with the people," he said.

"They are not mere 'vetpalargal' (candidates), but 'makkal kappalargal' (people's protectors)," Vijay said, urging voters to extend wholehearted support to them.

Generational electoral battle

Reiterating that the main contest was between TVK and the DMK-led alliance, Vijay described the ruling bloc as a “patch-up”.

"This is a generational electoral battle," he said, calling upon Gen Z voters to turn out in large numbers and support the party’s ‘whistle’ symbol.

Outlining his expectations from candidates, Vijay underlined the importance of honesty and public service.

"They must possess impeccable integrity and should not 'loot' the people," he said.