Tamil Nadu's politics has long shared a close connection with cinema, with several film personalities rising to top leadership roles. Now, with early election trends showing Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), in a strong position, the state could soon see another actor take charge as chief minister.
If confirmed, Vijay will join a notable list of film figures who successfully moved from screen to politics. Here's a look at those leaders who rose to power:
M Karunanidhi
Known as Kalaignar, he had deep roots in cinema as a writer before becoming a key leader of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Though he was not primarily an actor, he made a brief appearance in the 1990 film Kavalukku Kettikaran. He served five terms as chief minister between 1969 and 2011, shaping both the political and cultural landscape of Tamil Nadu.
Maruthur Gopalan Ramachandran
Popularly known as MGR, he was a leading star of Tamil cinema who transitioned into politics, first with DMK and later by founding All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in 1972. He served three consecutive terms as chief minister until 1987, building a lasting public legacy. He is known for popular films like Nadodi Mannan, Enga Veettu Pillai, Ayirathil Oruvan, Adimai Penn, and Rickshawkaran to his credit.
Janaki Ramachandran
An actress and MGR's wife, she briefly became chief minister in 1988 after his death. Though her tenure was short, she remains the first woman to hold the post in Tamil Nadu. She featured in films like 1000 Thalaivangi Apoorva Chinthamani, Raja Mukthi, and Mohini.
J Jayalalithaa
Jayalalithaa had already made a mark in cinema with a wide range of films across languages, including Aayirathil Oruvan, Vennira Aadai, Adimaippenn, Kavalkaran, and Pattikatu Ponnaiah. After a successful film career, she rose through AIADMK and became Tamil Nadu's first popularly elected woman Chief Minister in 1991. She went on to serve six terms, known for welfare schemes like Amma canteens.
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Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao
In Andhra Pradesh, NTR followed a similar path. A celebrated actor, widely admired for playing mythological characters like Lord Krishna and Rama, he founded the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in 1982 and became Chief Minister, leaving a strong mark through reforms and welfare initiatives.
Vijay (Expected)
Now, Vijay “Thalapathy” appears to be on the verge of joining this list. After launching TVK in 2024, his quick rise in politics has surprised many. If the current trends hold, Vijay's entry will mark yet another chapter, potentially ending the long-standing dominance of DMK and AIADMK.
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