Thalapathy vijay Embraces Periyar’s Legacy but Distances Himself from ‘Anti-God’ Sentiment, Criticizes ‘Corrupt Family Politics’

In a powerful address, actor thalapathy vijay launched his political vision with a metaphor, likening himself to a child courageously confronting a snake. “I am a child in politics, I admit,” he declared to applause. “But this child is ready to hold the snake [politics] in his hand.” He quickly moved from symbolism to assertive declarations: “Our political plan is absolutely practical.”

thalapathy vijay’s Roadmap Beyond Film Stardom

Positioning himself beyond the realm of film stardom, Vijay presented himself as a leader with a roadmap for change, aiming to stand apart from the state's entrenched political system.

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Critique of “Corrupt Family Politics” and Divisive Agendas

Without mentioning specific parties, Vijay condemned “corrupt family politics” and divisive agendas rooted in caste and communalism. He outlined TVK’s mission as distinct from other political factions, contrasting it with what he termed “regressive practices.”

Identifying Hidden Threats: Corruption as the Elusive Enemy

“Divisive forces split us by religion, caste, and identity, but they’re not our only enemies,” he said. “Corruption must be opposed as well. Divisive forces are visible, but corrupt ones are elusive, eloquent in ideology, dramatic in their performance, claiming to be Tamil culture’s guardians. Their faces themselves are masks. These masked forces rule over us today. Yes, they are our true enemies.”

A Cautious Approach: Decency in Political Critique

Carefully calibrated, his speech struck a balance, making his positions clear yet keeping his critique indirect and sharp. Maintaining a respectful tone, he made clear his preference for “decent political attacks” over personal ones. “We’re not here for personal attacks,” he emphasized. “Only dignified political critiques.”

Calling Out the “Anti-People” Government and Questioning the “Dravida Model”

Vijay also took aim at the current government, branding it “anti-people” and accusing it of “masquerading as a model of social justice.” “They run an anti-people government and fool people by calling it a Dravida model government,” he said. With a pause, he added, “They keep saying ‘fascism, fascism, fascism.’ Are you a payasam [a soft, sweet dessert] then?”

Setting Himself Apart: Grounding TVK’s Ideology in Tamil Legacy

While fiery speeches are a hallmark in Tamil politics, Vijay’s restrained delivery seemed an intentional choice to set him apart. His address sought to ground TVK’s ideology in the legacy of Tamil leaders. He invoked names like Dravidian icon E.V. Ramasamy Periyar, former Chief Minister K. Kamaraj, and Constitution architect B.R. Ambedkar, aligning TVK’s values with their visions.

Respect for Tradition but Distinct from the Anti-Religious Stance

Vijay asserted that TVK’s ideological pillars would focus on social justice, women’s empowerment, and secularism. However, he made it clear that TVK would depart from the Dravidian movement’s atheistic principles. “We won’t take only one thing from Periyar — his anti-God stance. We don’t support a politics that denies God,” he clarified.

A Call for Political Evolution: Rejecting Traditional Rhetoric

He also critiqued the rigid, traditional style of political speeches, suggesting they have lost their appeal. “I’m not here to quote world literature and sound like an MP3 playlist,” he quipped, adding, “If science and technology evolve, politics should too.”

Redefining the “Koothadi” Label and Embracing Truth

Reclaiming the term “koothadi” — a colloquial term often used to disparage actors in politics — he embraced it humorously. “Even if you call me Thalapathy [the lieutenant, as his fans affectionately call him], I am still a koothadi to some,” he remarked. “But koothadis tell the truth.” He referenced icons like actor-politicians M.G. Ramachandran and Andhra Pradesh’s N.T. Rama Rao, subtly positioning himself within their lineage.

Prioritizing Education, Women’s Safety, and Social Equity

Vijay’s platform emphasizes education, women’s safety, and social equity. He proposed creating a dedicated department for the protection of women, children, and the elderly and promised reforms to ensure access to education, healthcare, and essentials like clean drinking water. He also advocated for a caste census, arguing that proportional representation is crucial for achieving equal opportunity.

Aligning with Dravidian Ideals While Embracing Nationalism

He was keen to clarify that TVK’s philosophy does not renounce Dravidian ideology. “Dravidam and nationalism are the two eyes of our ideology,” he said, explaining that TVK seeks to bridge traditional Dravidian values with broader national priorities, embracing both rather than choosing between them.

Eyes on 2026: The Road to State Elections

As he wrapped up his speech, Vijay’s sights were set on the 2026 state elections. “Each vote should drop here like an atom bomb,” he urged the audience. Seeking a mandate for TVK, he left the door open for alliances: “Whoever joins us will share in the power of our government,” a statement seen as a strategic invitation to AIADMK, which could face further erosion if TVK emerges as a formidable secular force against DMK.

A Final Appeal: Putting Trust in the People of Tamil Nadu

Ending with a nod to his public, Vijay said, “I’ve come here, leaving the peak of my career, because I trust you, the people.” With DMK and AIADMK carrying legacies of 75 and 50 years, respectively, and BJP holding a national foothold, TVK’s journey won’t be easy. Yet, Vijay’s speech suggests he is preparing to sustain this movement beyond initial enthusiasm and into the critical elections of 2026.

published by dailybharat