Tamil Nadu politics has always been deeply influenced by cinema, charismatic leaders, and legacy-driven narratives. In the latest major political shift, KA Sengottaiyan, a senior leader expelled from the AIADMK, publicly declared that actor Vijay—founder of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)—is walking in the footsteps of MG Ramachandran (MGR), the legendary actor, political icon, and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister. His statement has added new momentum and curiosity to the evolving political landscape as Tamil Nadu heads toward the crucial Assembly elections next year.
- KA Sengottaiyan’s Big Claim on Actor Vijay and MGR’s Political Legacy
- Why Sengottaiyan Left the AIADMK
- Why Actor Vijay Is Becoming a Major Political Force
- Paying Tribute to MGR, Jayalalithaa, and Annadurai—A Powerful Message
- Political Vision Compared to MGR’s Philosophy
- 1. Strong Connection with the Poor and Middle Class
- 2. Massive Youth Appeal
- 3. Clean Public Image
- 4. Messaging Rooted in Equality and Empowerment
- Impact on AIADMK and the 2026 Tamil Nadu Elections
- Will MGR’s Legacy Truly Transfer to Vijay?
Sengottaiyan, a seasoned political strategist known for his organisational strength, joined TVK just 24 hours before this announcement. Speaking to NDTV, he emphasised his belief that the 51-year-old actor, who is preparing for his electoral debut, is poised to inherit and carry forward MGR’s legacy—a claim that has ignited widespread debate among cadres, analysts, and voters.
KA Sengottaiyan’s Big Claim on Actor Vijay and MGR’s Political Legacy
In his first interview after joining TVK, KA Sengottaiyan responded directly to the question: Does actor Vijay resemble MGR as a political leader?
His reply was firm and emotionally charged:
“You ask if I see MGR in Vijay… Yes. When MGR started his own party, many mocked him, saying it would last only 100 days like his films. But he created history. Today, I see Vijay walking on the same revolutionary path.”
This comparison is not made lightly. MGR remains one of the most influential political figures in South India, revered even decades after his death. For someone like Sengottaiyan—who worked under leaders like MGR and Jayalalithaa—to make such a statement indicates the magnitude of Vijay’s growing political presence.
Why Sengottaiyan Left the AIADMK
The timing of his entry into TVK is significant. Sengottaiyan was recently expelled from the AIADMK after urging party chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) to re-admit three former leaders:
- V.K. Sasikala
- O. Panneerselvam
- T.T.V. Dhinakaran
He argued that unity was essential for the AIADMK’s electoral survival. However, EPS rejected this suggestion and removed him from the party, prompting Sengottaiyan to join forces with Vijay.
His shift indicates deeper cracks in the AIADMK, as several influential leaders feel sidelined by the current leadership.
Why Actor Vijay Is Becoming a Major Political Force
For years, Vijay a colossal name in Tamil cinema, maintained a politically neutral stance publicly. However, his social welfare activities, educational support programmes, and consistent messaging on social justice hinted at deeper political intentions.
The official launch of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in 2024 confirmed those intentions.
Today, Vijay’s political rise appears strategic and well-calculated, and Sengottaiyan’s praise amplifies this trajectory. According to political observers, Vijay’s clean image, massive youth following, and his ability to speak to the aspirations of first-time voters set him apart from other contemporary leaders.
Sengottaiyan pointed out another symbolic gesture: Vijay’s campaign vehicle carries portraits of both MGR and Annadurai, representing the twin ideological roots of Tamil Nadu politics—AIADMK and DMK. This positions Vijay as a leader appealing to all sections of the electorate.
Paying Tribute to MGR, Jayalalithaa, and Annadurai—A Powerful Message
One of the most striking elements of Sengottaiyan’s induction into TVK was his immediate visit to the memorials of:
- MGR
- J. Jayalalithaa
- C.N. Annadurai
This move was heavy with political symbolism. These leaders represent the soul of Tamil Nadu’s political identity:
- MGR: The revolutionary leader and founder of AIADMK
- Jayalalithaa: His political heir and a towering figure in state governance
- Annadurai: Founder of the DMK and architect of the Dravidian movement
By paying homage to all three, Sengottaiyan signalled his respect for their legacy while aligning with Vijay’s broader, inclusive strategy—drawing inspiration from both Dravidian stalwarts.
Political Vision Compared to MGR’s Philosophy
Supporters of Vijay believe that his political approach mirrors the qualities that made MGR a beloved leader:
1. Strong Connection with the Poor and Middle Class
Like MGR, Vijay has a long history of philanthropic efforts, mainly focused on education and healthcare for the underprivileged.
2. Massive Youth Appeal
Vijay commands a huge fan base among young voters—similar to the charismatic pull MGR once had.
3. Clean Public Image
In contrast to current AIADMK and DMK leaders facing internal conflicts, Vijay’s reputation remains untarnished.
4. Messaging Rooted in Equality and Empowerment
Vijay’s speeches reflect values of dignity, simplicity, and social justice, aligning with MGR’s political values.
Impact on AIADMK and the 2026 Tamil Nadu Elections
Sengottaiyan’s exit from the AIADMK is not merely an individual departure—it represents a shift in loyalty among old-guard leaders who feel alienated.
His experience and organisational strength could help TVK expand deeper into rural belts.
For AIADMK, still recovering from internal feuds and leadership troubles, this is a major blow. The addition of a strong strategist to TVK gives the new party credibility and structure.
Political analysts suggest that TVK may emerge as a third major force in the 2026 elections, altering the traditional DMK vs AIADMK rivalry.
Will MGR’s Legacy Truly Transfer to Vijay?
This question continues to dominate political discourse.
While MGR remains irreplaceable, Sengottaiyan insists that Vijay possesses the same qualities of compassion, leadership vision, and mass connection. Whether the public fully embraces this comparison remains to be seen, but the symbolic gestures—portraits, memorial visits, and ideological positioning—are shaping a strong emotional narrative.
As Tamil Nadu prepares for a politically heated election season, one thing is clear:
Actor Vijay’s entry has shaken up the political landscape, and KA Sengottaiyan’s endorsement has amplified it even further.
Get the latest updates on Global India Broadcast News your trusted digital destination for breaking headlines, entertainment buzz, lifestyle trends, health and fitness tips, technology insights, business developments, political updates, world news, and exclusive interviews from India and around the globe.
