Actor Thalapathy Vijay, a prominent and successful star in Tamil Nadu, has joined the tradition of actors entering politics in the state. Known for his anti-GST dialogues in the 2017 blockbuster Mersal, he recently announced the formation of his political party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (Tamil Nadu Victory Party). The film Mersal, directed by Atlee, stirred both mass and critical acclaim, while also triggering a political controversy.
Apart from Vijay, here is the list of Tamil actors who joined politics.
1) MGR
MGR, widely known as Maruthur Gopalan Ramachandran, served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for three consecutive terms from June 1977 until his passing in December 1987. A key figure, he not only held a prominent political role but also founded the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). His political journey commenced in 1972 when he joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
2) Jayalalithaa
Jayaram Jayalalithaa, who served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for six terms, began her career in the film industry. Starting as a child actor in 1960, she secured her first lead role in 1965. Jayalalithaa entered politics in 1982 alongside her successful co-star MGR. Joining AIADMK, she eventually became the general secretary of the party after MGR’s demise.
3) Vijayakanth
Vijayakanth, widely recognised as Captain, was not only a Tamil politician but also a prominent actor. As the founder of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), he held the position of Leader of the Opposition in Tamil Nadu. Born as Vijayaraj Alagarswami, he initially made a mark in the Tamil film industry, debuting in Inikkum Ilamai in 1979.
4) Napoleon
Kumaresan Duraisamy, commonly known as Napoleon, is a versatile actor with a presence in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and English films. Making his film debut in 1991, he expanded his reach to Hollywood with his first movie, Devil’s Night: Dawn of the Nain Rouge, in 2019. Transitioning to politics, Napoleon joined DMK and served as the Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment in the Manmohan Singh government from 2009 to 2013. Later, in 2015, he shifted to BJP after leaving DMK.
5) Kamal Haasan
Parthasarathy Srinivasan, widely known as Kamal Haasan, entered the political arena with the establishment of his party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), in 2018. Born as the son of a freedom fighter in Tamil Nadu, Kamal Haasan began his acting journey as a child artist at the age of six in 1960.
6) Sivaji Ganesan
Sivaji Ganesan ventured into politics by launching Thamizhaga Munnetra Munnani in 1988 but faced challenges in making a mark as a politician. Sivaji Ganesan initiated his political journey as an activist of the Dravidar Kazhagam and later aligned himself with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) after its establishment by CN Annadurai in 1949. His steadfast support for DMK continued until 1956, marking a significant period of association with the political movement.
7) R Sarathkumar
R Sarathkumar’s ability to balance his roles as both an actor and a politician showcases his versatility and commitment to both fields simultaneously. Sarathkumar took a step into politics by establishing his political party, the All India Samathuva Makkal Katchi, on 31 August 2007. In the lead-up to the 2011 Assembly elections, he joined the AIADMK alliance, securing two seats for his party.
8) Ramarajan
Ramarajan’s transition into politics led him to join a prominent political party in Tamil Nadu, and he even served as a former Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha. His foray into both the film industry and politics reflects a multifaceted career. He secured a place in the 12th Lok Sabha as a candidate for the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) from the Thiruchendur Lok Sabha constituency in 1998.
9) T Rajendar
T Rajendar’s dual role as a director-actor and the leader of the political party All India Latchiya Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam demonstrates his commitment to both the entertainment industry and public service through various welfare activities. Rajendar initiated the Thayaga Marumalarchi Kazhagam party in 1991 following his expulsion from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). In 1996, amidst Vaiko’s exit from the DMK and the establishment of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Rajendar’s TMK merged back with the DMK.
10) Udhayanidhi Stalin
Udhayanidhi Stalin, known for his association with a prominent political background, transitioned into a full-time politician about a year ago. His decision reflects a shift towards a more active political role, following in the footsteps of his family’s political legacy. Udhayanidhi Stalin’s vigorous campaign played a pivotal role in securing a significant victory for the DMK in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. His impactful “AIIMS Brick” remark notably influenced the trajectory of the election campaign, contributing to the party’s success.
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