Chennai: Numerous actors and public figures have started political parties that eventually lost their drive, but the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) will maintain its strength, according to P. Venkataramanan, treasurer of the party founded by actor-turned-politician Vijay in February 2024.
Venkataramanan described TVK as a unique movement built on lasting admiration from the public, unlike the temporary excitement seen in previous celebrity-backed initiatives.
‘In Tamil Nadu and beyond, Vijay holds a special place in people’s affections. They have long hoped for his entry into politics to improve community welfare,’ he explained in an interview with ThePrint.
He contrasted TVK with parties like Vijayakanth’s Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), launched in 2005, and Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), started in 2018, noting that those groups have diminished in activity and aligned with larger entities.
Venkataramanan stressed that Vijay is motivated by sincere concern for the public, not personal gain, and enjoys a familial connection with supporters that will prevent TVK from fading.
‘Our leader is seen as part of every family, which guarantees our ongoing relevance,’ he said.
Regarding a tragic stampede at a TVK event in Karur in September 2025, which caused over 40 fatalities and many injuries, Venkataramanan called it an unintended incident. ‘We regret any loss of life and are fully assisting the investigation,’ he added.
He accused governing parties of using authorities to hinder opponents’ activities, but emphasized that TVK draws strength from grassroots support rather than institutional power.
Addressing claims that Vijay’s campaigning lacks intensity, Venkataramanan rejected them as rival tactics, stating that Vijay is already well-connected with communities across the state.
‘Other parties campaign to regain visibility after ignoring voters, but we consistently address their needs at the local level,’ he noted.
On topics like honor killings, constituency redrawing, and national finances, Venkataramanan said TVK prioritizes direct support for those impacted over media statements.
‘We focus on standing with citizens rather than seeking publicity,’ he affirmed.
He highlighted public frustration with the control exerted by DMK and AIADMK, positioning TVK as a service-oriented option inspired by leaders such as Velunachiyaar, Ambedkar, Kamarajar, Bharathiyar, and Periyar, with authentic ties to Dravidian principles.
Venkataramanan explained that the party’s strategy capitalizes on Vijay’s popularity, with candidates viewed as his representatives.
‘Voters associate every TVK contender with Vijay himself,’ he said.
Discussing election plans, he expressed confidence in achieving 50-60% of votes to take power, citing broad discontent with the established Dravidian duo.
Venkataramanan, interviewed on Wednesday, is running in the Mylapore seat for Tamil Nadu’s assembly polls scheduled for April 23.
Also read: TVK offers gold rings and monthly stipends to women as part of pre-election welfare promises.
