In an effort to restore the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) to prominence in Tamil Nadu politics, party leader V. Vijay Prabhakaran believes partnering with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) provides the necessary foundation for success in the upcoming assembly elections. Contesting from Virudhunagar under the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), Prabhakaran expressed optimism about the party’s resurgence.
From Virudhunagar in Tamil Nadu, the DMDK aims to regain its footing and preserve the heritage of its founder, the late actor-turned-politician Captain Vijayakanth, through this new collaboration with the governing DMK.
Under the seat-sharing deal, the DMDK has been assigned 10 constituencies. Prabhakaran stated that the alliance places significant attention on his party. ‘Through this partnership with the DMK, we aim to restore my father’s vision for the DMDK as an organization committed to transparent governance, integrity, and public service,’ he explained in an interview.
He noted that the party faced challenges due to his father’s health issues. The passing of Captain Vijayakanth in December 2023 represented a major setback. ‘Our members were concerned about the party’s future direction, but my mother took charge, and with the backing of our supporters, I stepped forward. This DMK alliance offers the opportunity to realize my father’s aspirations,’ Prabhakaran added.
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Advancing the Heritage
Prabhakaran described his entry into politics as a dual obligation—personal and political—following his father’s death. ‘As the son of Vijayakanth, I carry a substantial duty, given the millions of followers who relied on him. They felt leaderless after his passing, so it falls to me to bridge that void and continue the foundation he established over 20 years,’ he said.
In its debut in 2006, the DMDK ran independently in 232 of 234 seats, securing just one victory despite an 8.38 percent vote share.
Allied with the AIADMK in 2011, it contested 41 seats and won 29.
In 2016, still aligned with the AIADMK, the party ran in 104 seats but claimed none, with votes falling to 2.39 percent.
In 2021, again with the AIADMK, it competed in 60 seats without success, garnering only 0.43 percent of the state’s votes.
Prabhakaran praised his mother, DMDK general secretary Premalatha Vijayakanth, for her stable guidance and protective role during tough periods. ‘Under her direction amid obstacles, we will rebuild our dedicated following through tangible efforts, not mere rhetoric. The members and backers who supported my father will witness the DMDK’s return via practical initiatives, unlike the unfulfilled commitments of others,’ he emphasized.
Responding to accusations of family-based politics and favoritism, he mentioned that his father had urged him to engage in party activities. After the loss, he viewed it as his role to reassure the distressed members. ‘I am committed not just to my father but also to our supporters who remained loyal through difficulties.’
Contrasting DMK and AIADMK
Prabhakaran pointed out differences in how various groups have interacted with the DMDK. He acknowledged previous tensions with the DMK but stressed the absence of personal grudges.
‘When the DMDK emerged in 2005, the DMK held power. Emerging parties often challenge the incumbent and develop their principles. On a personal level, there is shared admiration between the DMK and DMDK,’ he said.
He recalled that at his parents’ wedding, former DMK leader M. Karunanidhi performed a key ritual. ‘Chief Minister M.K. Stalin mentioned in a rally that he once promoted my father’s film and is now supporting his son in politics.’
Prabhakaran affirmed the DMDK’s commitment to the DMK coalition due to the respect shown and fulfillment of agreements, including a prompt Rajya Sabha seat allocation by Stalin.
He described the current partnership as one of mutual esteem and stability, with figures like Udhayanidhi Stalin and Kanimozhi actively participating in campaigns.
‘This collaboration will enable us to restore our standing and contribute significantly to the next administration,’ Prabhakaran stated.
By contrast, he noted that the AIADMK failed to uphold its commitments to the DMDK.
