Chennai, May 10: In a dramatic and historic turn in Tamil Nadu politics, actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay, widely known as “Thalapathy” Vijay, took oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday at a grand ceremony held at Chennai’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath of office and secrecy to Vijay along with nine ministers from the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led alliance government. The event witnessed massive public enthusiasm as thousands of supporters, party workers, and fans gathered at the stadium chanting slogans in support of Vijay and TVK.
Vijay’s rise to power is being seen as a landmark moment in the state’s political history, as it breaks the decades-long dominance of the DMK and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu politics. TVK, contesting its first Assembly election, emerged as the single largest party and later secured support from alliance partners including Congress, VCK, CPI, CPI(M), and IUML to form the government.
Soon after taking oath, Vijay greeted supporters in his trademark style and even clicked selfies with enthusiastic party workers, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s reaction to the moment also drew attention on social media, with videos and photographs from the event quickly going viral.
In his brief address after the ceremony, Vijay promised a government focused on inclusive development, social justice, transparency, youth empowerment, and welfare-oriented governance. He said the new administration would work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Tamil Nadu.
Several senior political leaders, celebrities from the Tamil film industry, and members of Vijay’s family attended the swearing-in ceremony, adding glamour and significance to the occasion. Popular actress Trisha Krishnan was also seen at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium during the oath-taking ceremony, attracting attention from fans and media alike.
Meanwhile, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge congratulated Vijay and the TVK alliance, stating that the formation of the new government reflects the values of social justice, self-respect, empowerment, and rational thought deeply rooted in Tamil Nadu’s political culture.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his wishes to Vijay, saying the Central Government would continue to work closely with the Tamil Nadu Government for the development of the state.
According to an official release from Lok Bhavan, Chennai, the Governor approved the appointment of nine ministers recommended by Chief Minister-designate Vijay. The cabinet includes N. Anand, Aadhav Arjuna, Dr. K.G. Arunraj, K.A. Sengottaiyan, P. Venkataramanan, R. Nirmalkumar, Rajmohan, Dr. TK. Prabhu, and S. Keerthana.
Political observers across the country are closely watching the new government, as Vijay begins his transition from cinema superstar to administrator in one of India’s most politically influential states.
