‘Thalapathy’ Takes Charge: TVK chief C. Joseph Vijay sworn in as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu

In a political moment set to redefine Tamil Nadu’s electoral landscape, actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay took oath as the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday, marking the rise of a new political force in the state. With his oath-taking, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President Vijay becomes the first leader outside the DMK and AIADMK camps to assume power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, ending nearly six decades of two-party dominance.

Vijay’s party secured 108 seats in the Assembly elections. The party also received support from alliance partners, including the Congress, which won 5 seats, along with the Communist Party of India (2), Communist Party of India (Marxist) (2), Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (2), and the Indian Union Muslim League (2).

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#WATCH | Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath of office to Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Chief C Joseph Vijay as the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai. pic.twitter.com/ZWqm6tu8xH

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— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2026

The swearing-in ceremony in Chennai witnessed the presence of several political leaders and film personalities. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi attended the event alongside senior alliance leaders and thousands of supporters who gathered to witness the historic occasion.

#UPDATE | Chennai: TVK Chief C Joseph Vijay signs the first set of documents after taking oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, including-

1. 200 units of free power supply
2. Special task force to tackle drugs
3. Special task force to ensure women’s safety. https://t.co/IXq77IDRdQ

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2026

Actor Trisha Krishnan described the day as a “big day for Tamil Nadu” while arriving for the ceremony. Vijay’s mother, Sobha, expressed her happiness as her son took charge of the state. “I am so happy. It is Mother’s Day today, I am very happy,” she said.

Popularly known as “Thalapathy” among his fans, Vijay’s transition from cinema to politics has drawn comparisons with legendary actor-politician M. G. Ramachandran. His massive turnout at campaign rallies and strong youth appeal echoed the political charisma once associated with MGR. Political observers also viewed his emergence as the most significant actor-led political breakthrough in the state since Vijayakanth.

Though Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam was formally launched in 2024, Vijay had long maintained a public image rooted in social causes and political commentary through his films. Themes such as corruption, drug abuse, and governance frequently featured in his movies, fuelling speculation about his political ambitions for over a decade. His involvement in welfare activities and outreach programmes further strengthened his connect with the public ahead of his political debut.

With Vijay now at the helm, Tamil Nadu enters a new political chapter shaped by a fresh power centre beyond the traditional Dravidian rivals that dominated the state for generations.