LETTER | This wasn’t just a movie audio launch. It was a grand show. A big moment. A sign of something bigger.

When Tamil superstar Vijay stepped onto the stage at Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Jalil National Stadium to launch the music of “Jananayagan” (Leader of the People), the crowd of over 87,000 didn’t just hear songs; they felt a powerful message - Vijay is ready for politics.

Vijay isn’t just promoting a film. He’s starting a new journey.

With his party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), officially entering the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, Vijay is moving from movies to politics.

And if the past is anything to go by, Malaysia might be a lucky place for Tamil leaders.

Look at history:

- In 1965, CN Annadurai visited Malaysia. Two years later, he became chief minister of Tamil Nadu.

- In 1973, MG Ramachandran filmed “Ulagam Sutrum Vaaliban” in Malaysia. By 1977, he was the chief minister.

- In 1987, M Karunanidhi attended the World Tamil Conference in Kuala Lumpur. Soon after, he returned to power.

Now, in 2025, Vijay follows a similar path. Is it just chance, or something more?

But times have changed. Today’s Tamil Nadu is not what it was in the 60s or 80s. Politics is tougher now. Voters are smarter, and being a movie star doesn’t guarantee success.

Just look at Kamal Haasan. Even with his fame, his party, Makkal Needhi Maiyam, is still struggling. 

And Rajinikanth? After years of hints, he stepped away from politics without ever entering it.

Vijay, on the other hand, has made his move. No more waiting. No more guessing. The big question now is: can he turn his popularity into real political power?

He has the fans. From Tamil Nadu to Malaysia and Singapore, his name is everywhere. But elections aren’t won with fame alone.

And TVK’s biggest challenge? It still doesn’t have a strong party symbol-something very important in Tamil Nadu, where symbols matter as much as slogans.

For years, Vijay kept everyone wondering. Now, the wait is over. The race has begun.

The “Jananayagan” audio launch broke records, earning a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records for the biggest crowd at a Tamil film audio event. Bukit Jalil Stadium, which holds about 87,500 people, was nearly full - making it the largest Vijay event outside India.

So, will Vijay win big in 2026? Or will he find out that winning votes is very different from winning hearts at the movies?

One thing’s for sure - the spotlight is on, and everyone’s watching.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.