Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, the actor known as Vijay, was sworn in as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday.
The appointment marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape, as a cinematic figure transitions into the top executive role following a high-stakes election cycle.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai [1]. Following the event, Vijay arrived at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat to receive the Guard of Honour [2].
Upon taking office, the new chief minister signed directives to implement a free-electricity scheme [1]. This move fulfills a primary campaign promise made by his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), to provide free power to citizens [1, 3].
The path to the premiership followed an election held on May 4, 2026 [3]. The process of forming a government involved several days of negotiations among six different parties [2].
While there were initial reports that the governor believed a legislative majority had not been established [2], subsequent support letters from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) provided a tally of 120 seats [2]. This number surpasses the required majority threshold for the assembly [2].
Vijay's ascent to power comes after a series of meetings and logistical hurdles that delayed the final oath-taking process [2]. The new administration now focuses on the immediate execution of its social welfare pledges to the electorate [1, 3].
“Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar was sworn in as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu.”
The transition of a popular cinema star into the chief minister's office reflects a continuing trend of celebrity influence in South Indian politics. By immediately signing the free-electricity directive, Vijay is attempting to solidify his populist mandate and demonstrate the TVK's ability to govern through direct social subsidies.
