Nani, Sharwanand, Sai Dharam Tej hail Vijay's TVK surge in Tamil Nadu elections
Synopsis
Vijay's political gambit has paid off. With his TVK leading in 110 of Tamil Nadu's 234 constituencies, the actor-turned-politician is set to become Chief Minister — a milestone that has drawn congratulations from fellow Telugu stars Nani, Sharwanand, and Sai Dharam Tej. South India's cinema-to-politics pipeline is now undeniable.
Key Takeaways
Vijay's TVK leads in 110 of 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2026 .
Nani congratulated Vijay, drawing parallels to his own political success in Telangana.
Sai Dharam Tej called the victory "groundbreaking" and praised Vijay's ability to overcome skeptics.
Sharwanand framed the transition from cinema to leadership as a natural progression.
Vijay is positioned to become the next Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
Chennai, May 4 — Telugu actors Nani, Sharwanand, and Sai Dharam Tej were among prominent figures who congratulated actor-turned-politician Vijay as his party, the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), surged ahead in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2026. At the time of reporting, Vijay's TVK was leading in 110 of the state's 234 constituencies, positioning the actor for a potential Chief Minister's role.
Telugu stars extend congratulations
Nani took to social media to praise Vijay's political ascent, drawing a parallel to his own career trajectory in Telangana. "Congratulations @actorvijay sir. First doubted and then crowned. Happened at our home and now it's happening in our neighbouring home. Underdog winning is always absolute cinema (or should I say absolute politics?)," Nani wrote, adding that he hoped "great things follow for the people of Tamil Nadu who have made their decision clear."
Sai Dharam Tej on Vijay's groundbreaking victory
Sai Dharam Tej described the win as "groundbreaking," highlighting Vijay's ability to prove doubters wrong through public support. "There's a different high when an actor or should I say a demigod proves everyone wrong through public love! It has been a norm, especially in South India," he noted. He further stated, "The people of Tamil Nadu have spoken in huge numbers. Hope you bring the change that everyone is looking forward to. Hearty congratulations on this landslide victory."
Sharwanand's message on cinema-to-leadership transition
Sharwanand framed Vijay's political entry as a natural progression from cinema to public service. "I've said it before, some journeys are meant for more. Congratulations to @actorvijay sir on this defining moment. From cinema to leadership, you've earned the trust of millions. Wishing you strength and purpose for what lies ahead," the actor wrote on social media.
What's next for Tamil Nadu
With TVK leading in over half the state's constituencies, final results are expected to confirm Vijay's path to the Chief Minister's office. The outcome marks a significant moment for South Indian cinema-to-politics transitions, following similar precedents in Telangana and Karnataka in recent years.
Point of View
Rajinikanth's presence shaped Tamil Nadu politics for decades, and now Vijay has completed the circuit. What's noteworthy is not that an actor won, but that voters explicitly chose to make him Chief Minister, not just a coalition partner. That's a mandate, not a consolation prize. The real test now is whether TVK can govern as effectively as it campaigned.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Which party did Vijay lead to victory in Tamil Nadu elections 2026?
Vijay led the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), which is leading in 110 of the state's 234 constituencies, positioning him for the Chief Minister's role.
How many constituencies is Vijay's TVK leading in?
TVK is leading in 110 of Tamil Nadu's 234 constituencies at the time of reporting, giving it a clear majority.
What did Telugu actor Nani say about Vijay's victory?
Nani congratulated Vijay and drew a parallel to his own political success in Telangana, calling Vijay's underdog win "absolute cinema" and expressing hope for positive outcomes for Tamil Nadu's people.
Why did Sai Dharam Tej describe the victory as groundbreaking?
Sai Dharam Tej highlighted that Vijay, like other South Indian actors, proved doubters wrong by winning through public support, describing it as a pattern especially common in South India.
What is the significance of actors entering politics in South India?
South India has established a pattern of successful actor-to-politics transitions, with Vijay's victory reinforcing that cinema and electoral politics are now intertwined in the region's political landscape.
