Kamal Haasan vs Vijay: DMK deploys its biggest ally as actor-politicians turn campaign trail into blockbuster battle

The political stage in Tamil Nadu is suddenly looking like a blockbuster movie set; full of star power, sharp lines, and a lot of drama. This time, the spotlight is firmly on actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, who has stepped in as the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam’s star campaigner in Coimbatore. But just as the cameras zoom in there, another star, actor Vijay, is shaking up the contest in Chennai.

Haasan’s fiery entry into Coimbatore on Sunday added aggression to the campaign trail. With punchy lines and pointed questions, he took on the Centre, backed his candidate, and reminded voters that this election is not just about seats; it’s about pride, power, and political comeback.

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Haasan turns Coimbatore rally into political theatre

Campaigning for DMK candidate Senthil Balaji in Coimbatore East, Haasan made it clear he was not there just for formality. Calling the seat “our constituency,” he immediately set the tone.

He slammed the Centre for denying Coimbatore a metro rail project and questioned why the “Manchester of South India” was being overlooked.

He asked why cities like Patna and Agra received relaxed norms while Coimbatore did not. The crowd responded loudly as Haasan delivered his criticism with the ease of an experienced performer.

He also targeted Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over remarks linking metro projects to electoral outcomes, suggesting development should not be tied to politics.

Senthil Balaji’s comeback bid under the spotlight

Coimbatore has traditionally been a stronghold of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, but the DMK is now trying to flip the script. Haasan expressed confidence that Senthil Balaji would sweep the constituency, projecting him as the face of a new political shift.

Balaji’s candidacy has drawn intense attention. The former minister had stepped down following Enforcement Directorate allegations related to a cash-for-jobs case and alleged irregularities linked to the state-run liquor corporation, TASMAC.

Also Read: ‘Vote Whistle, create history’: Vijay launches explosive last-day attack on DMK and BJP, vows not to bow to pressure

Despite the controversy, the DMK appears determined to push his comeback, and Haasan’s endorsement adds star appeal to the strategy.

The rally also carried a personal note for Haasan. Coimbatore remains politically significant for him because he contested from Coimbatore South in the 2021 Assembly elections. He lost narrowly to BJP leader Vanathi Srinivasan, making his electoral debut a near miss.

Recalling that close contest, Haasan said he would “compliment as well as criticise if required” if Balaji wins.

Chennai turns into star-studded political battleground

While Coimbatore saw the weekend fireworks, the bigger political drama is unfolding in Chennai. Haasan had already launched his campaign from Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, backing Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who is seeking a second term.

Haasan praised Udhayanidhi’s performance, highlighting how “Tamil Nadu sportsmen have gained momentum” under the government’s focus on sports development.

Adding to the stakes, Chief Minister MK Stalin is contesting from Chennai as well, turning the capital into a prestige battle for the ruling party. With Vijay emerging as a challenger and Haasan stepping in as campaign star, the contest has become a full-blown celebrity-driven showdown.