Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Rahul Gandhi Sworn in, Joined by Vijay in Post-Inauguration Ceremony

Tamil Nadu Welcomes a New Era: Actor Vijay Sworn in as 13th Chief Minister

On Sunday, actor-turned-politician Vijay made history by becoming the 13th chief minister of Tamil Nadu. The ceremony, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru indoor stadium in Chennai, was attended by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and other dignitaries, including Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

Vijay's entry into politics has marked a significant shift in the state's politics, as his party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured the support of 120 MLAs in the 234-member state Assembly. In a modern and formal departure from traditional attire, Vijay opted for a white full-sleeved shirt, black suit, and black trousers.

The new chief minister was sworn in along with his Cabinet, which includes ministers 'Bussy' N Anand, Aadhav Arjuna, K A Sengottaiyan, K G Arunraaj, P Venkataramanan, C T R Nirmal Kumar, A Rajmohan, Keerthana, and K T Prabhu.

Read also: Indian Space Industry Stocks Gain Momentum: Three Companies to Watch

In his address immediately after being sworn in, Vijay expressed gratitude to the public for his victory and called for a "fresh new government" in Tamil Nadu. He emphasized the importance of secular and social justice, stating, "Come, let all of us together give Tamil Nadu a fresh new government. This is a new beginning, the start of a new era of secular, social justice."

Vijay's humble background and promise to fulfill the promises he made to the public ahead of the elections resonated with the audience. He acknowledged the support he received from Gen Z voters, saying "Vijay Mama" would always be there for them.

The 51-year-old chief minister was flanked by Rahul Gandhi and leaders of the alliance partners -VCK, CPI, and CPI(M), who extended support to the TVK to form the government in the state.

Tamil Nadu Election Results

Read also: Kumar Mangalam Birla to Address Concluding Function of RSS Training Camp

The 2026 Tamil Nadu elections were marked by an unprecedented mandate for Vijay, with his party winning 108 out of 234 seats in its maiden political stint. This historic victory saw both legacy 'Dravidian' parties, DMK and AIADMK, ousted from power for the first time in the state's history.