C. Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu on May 10, 2026, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai [1, 2, 3].

The transition marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape, as the actor-politician transitions from cinema to the highest executive office in the region.

Vijay, who is 51 years old [1], assumed office after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured a majority coalition [4]. The new government is supported by a bloc including the Congress, CPI, CPI(M), VCK, and IUML [4].

The swearing-in ceremony began at 10 a.m. [1, 2, 3]. The event took place at the Nehru Stadium, where Vijay and his cabinet were formally inducted into their roles [1, 2, 3].

Reports on the exact strength of the TVK party vary. Some sources said the party currently stands at 117 MLAs [2], while other reports said the tally has reached 120 MLAs [3]. The majority mark required for the Tamil Nadu Assembly is 118 MLAs [2].

Governor Rajendra Arlekar administered the oath of office to the new chief minister and his cabinet [1]. The formation of the TVK-led government follows a series of coalition negotiations to ensure a stable majority in the house [4].

“C. Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on May 10, 2026”

The ascent of C. Joseph Vijay to the Chief Minister's office represents the successful translation of cinematic popularity into electoral power. By securing a coalition with established parties like Congress and the CPI, Vijay has moved from a political outsider to the leader of a governing majority, potentially altering the traditional dominance of the DMK and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu politics.