C Joseph Vijay officially took oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday, marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. During the ceremony, the actor-turned-politician displayed a notable bond with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, referring to him as his “brother” during his inaugural speech.
The event in Chennai was characterized by visible camaraderie, with Gandhi sitting prominently beside Vijay on stage. The two leaders were seen chatting throughout the ceremony and shared a selfie moments after the oath was administered.
A Strategic Alliance for Power
The warmth displayed on stage carries heavy political weight. The Congress party, which holds five MLAs, played a pivotal role in helping Vijay cross the majority mark required to form the government in the 234-member Assembly.
Vijay expressed his gratitude during his first address as Chief Minister, stating, “I thank the Congress and its leader Mallikarjun Kharge, along with my brother Rahul Gandhi, for extending support to our government.”
From 2009 Speculation to 2026 Reality
This partnership is the culmination of a relationship that began nearly 17 years ago. In 2009, a meeting at Gandhi’s home sparked intense rumors that Vijay was preparing to join the Congress party.
At that time, Rahul Gandhi was focusing on energizing the Youth Congress and NSUI, while Vijay was building a social movement through his Vijay Makkal Iyakkam. Congress sources later indicated that Gandhi had offered Vijay the position of Tamil Nadu Youth Congress chief during those discussions.
Although Vijay firmly clarified at the time that he would not join any party, the connection endured. Following the 2024 launch of Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the two leaders remained in contact, speaking after the Karur stampede and TVK’s electoral debut.
The Road Ahead
The new administration begins with a strong visual and political endorsement from the Congress. The Tamil Nadu Congress unit recently highlighted this partnership on X via an AI-generated video, comparing the duo to the cinematic reunion of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
Looking forward, the stability of the government may depend on the continued strength of this alliance. Further collaboration between TVK and Congress could potentially reshape the power dynamics of the state, as the new government seeks to fulfill the hopes of the people.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Congress party help Vijay become Chief Minister?
Congress, which has five MLAs, was among the first parties to support Vijay, providing the necessary numbers to cross the halfway mark in the 234-member Assembly.
What happened during the 2009 meeting between Vijay and Rahul Gandhi?
The two spoke for about an hour regarding cinema and people’s movements. While Congress sources claimed Vijay was offered the post of Tamil Nadu Youth Congress chief, Vijay clarified at the time that he would not be joining the party.
When was the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) launched?
Vijay formally entered politics with the launch of TVK in 2024.
Do you think the alliance between a cinema-based political movement and a national party will bring lasting stability to Tamil Nadu?
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