Actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay, known as 'Thalapathy', was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on May 10, 2026, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai. The event marked a significant shift in the state's political landscape, as Vijay, leader of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, assumed office after his party's victory in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election.
Vijay took the oath of office and secrecy administered by Governor R.N. Ravi, in the presence of thousands of supporters and dignitaries. The ceremony was held at the stadium, which was filled with party workers and fans. Vijay's political entry had been anticipated for years, and his party's win was seen as a major upset in the state's politics.
In his first address as Chief Minister, Vijay outlined his government's priorities, including job creation, education reform, and infrastructure development. He also emphasized transparency and anti-corruption measures. The TVK party's manifesto had focused on social welfare and economic growth, appealing to a broad coalition of voters.
The election results, announced earlier in May 2026, gave the TVK a clear majority, allowing Vijay to form the government without coalition partners. Political analysts noted that Vijay's popularity as a film star and his grassroots campaigning were key factors in his victory. The swearing-in ceremony was widely covered by national and international media.
