TVK chief Vijay took the oath of office as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu at 10 a.m. on May 10, 2026 [1], [2].
The appointment marks a historic political shift in the region, ending 60 years of rule by Dravidian parties, specifically the DMK and AIADMK [1], [8].
The ceremony took place at Nehru Stadium in Chennai [1], [2]. Vijay, also known as Thalapathy Vijay, was appointed by the Governor after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), emerged as the single-largest party in the 2026 assembly elections [1], [4].
In the elections, TVK won 108 seats in the 234-member assembly [4], [5]. While this total is below the majority threshold of 118 seats [5], reports indicate Vijay has formed a coalition of 120 MLAs to secure the government [3].
Despite the victory, the transition was not without tension. Earlier reports indicated a possibility that the DMK and AIADMK might collaborate to prevent Vijay from taking power [4]. However, the Governor proceeded with the appointment of the TVK chief.
Vijay now faces a strict timeline to solidify his standing. He is required to prove his majority in the assembly by May 13, 2026 [4].
This political ascent follows a period of significant growth for the party, which sought to reach a milestone of five million votes for recognition [6]. The new administration now takes control of one of India's most influential states, moving away from the traditional binary of Dravidian politics that has dominated the landscape for six decades [1].
“Ending 60 years of Dravidian rule”
The ascent of Vijay and the TVK represents a fundamental disruption of the long-standing political duopoly in Tamil Nadu. By breaking the 60-year hold of the DMK and AIADMK, the state is entering an era of non-Dravidian leadership. The immediate stability of this government depends on the 120-MLA coalition's ability to hold together during the May 13 majority test.
