Vijay

Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, widely known as Thalapathy Vijay, is a prominent Indian actor, playback singer, dancer, philanthropist, and politician. He primarily works in Tamil cinema, where he is one of the most popular and highest-paid actors.

Recognised by his fans as "Thalapathy" (Commander), he recently announced his formal entry into politics by launching his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

By Rashmi | Monday, March 16, 2026, 11:09:38 AM [IST]

Vijay Biography

Born Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar on June 22, 1974, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Vijay is the son of renowned film director S. A. Chandrasekhar and playback singer Shoba Chandrasekhar. He had a younger sister, Vidhya, who passed away at the age of two; his production house, V.V Productions, is named in her memory.

Vijay began his acting career as a child artist, appearing in several films directed by his father, starting with 'Vetri' in 1984. He made his debut as a lead actor in 1992 with 'Naalaiya Theerpu' at the age of 18. His career gained significant traction with films like 'Poove Unakkaga' (1996) and 'Kadhalukku Mariyadhai' (1997), establishing him as a bankable star. He continued his rise to stardom with blockbusters such as 'Ghilli' (2004), 'Pokkiri' (2007), 'Thuppakki' (2012), 'Mersal' (2017), 'Sarkar' (2018), and 'Master' (2021).

Beyond acting, Vijay is also a talented playback singer, having lent his voice to numerous songs in his films, beginning with 'Bombay City Sukkha Rotti' in 1994. He is known for his extensive philanthropic activities through his social welfare organization, Vijay Makkal Iyakkam, which he founded in 2009. This organization has played an active role in community service, disaster relief efforts, and educational support. He has also been involved in various awareness campaigns and has sponsored the education of economically disadvantaged students.

In 2024, Vijay officially entered politics, launching his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), on February 2. The party was registered with the Election Commission of India on September 8, 2024, and aims to contest the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. His political ambitions had been simmering for a while, with Vijay Makkal Iyakkam showing political influence by securing 115 out of 169 seats in the 2021 local body elections. He had previously shown support for AIADMK in the 2011 Assembly elections. Vijay announced his retirement from films to focus entirely on his political career.

On the personal front, Vijay married Sangeetha Sornalingam, a Sri Lankan Tamil based in London, on August 25, 1999, in a ceremony that combined both Hindu and Christian traditions. They have two children: a son, Jason Sanjay, born on August 26, 2000, and a daughter, Divya Saasha, born on September 9, 2005. Sangeetha was reportedly a fan of Vijay before their marriage. In 2021, Vijay took legal action against his parents and others to prevent the use of his name for political activities.

Vijay Personal Life

Full Name	Vijay
Date of Birth	22 Jun 1974 (Age 51)
Place of Birth	Chenniai, Tamil Nadu
Party Name	Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam
Education	Dropped out of Bachelor's Degree in Visual Communication
Profession	Actor, Playback Singer, Philanthropist and Politician
Father's Name	S. A. Chandrasekhar
Mother's Name	Shoba Chandrasekhar
Spouse's Name	Sangeetha Sornalingam
Spouse's Profession	Industrialist
Children	1 Son(s) 1 Daughter(s)
Religion	Christian
Website	https://tvmioffl.com/

Vijay Net Worth

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Education Qualification of Vijay

Thalapathy Vijay attended Fatima Matriculation HSS in Kodambakkam for early studies. After completing 10th, he moved to Matriculation HSS. Later, he joined Loyola College, Chennai, for Visual Communications but left midway to pursue an acting career.

Interesting Facts about Vijay

Vijay is fondly called 'Thalapathy' (Commander) by his fans, a title he started using officially after his 2017 film 'Mersal', succeeding 'Ilayathalapathy' (Young Commander).

He was awarded an honorary Doctorate from the M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute in 2007 for his contributions to social welfare and cinema.
Vijay received the Kalaimaamani award from the Government of Tamil Nadu in 1998, just six years into his lead acting career.

His luxurious beach house in Neelankarai, Chennai, was reportedly inspired by Hollywood actor Tom Cruise's beach estate.

A devoted fan of Superstar Rajinikanth, Vijay has often stated that Rajinikanth inspired him to pursue acting. He even acted as a child artist in Rajinikanth's film 'Naan Sivappu Manithan'.

He is known as a teetotaller and focuses on charitable activities rather than grand birthday celebrations.

Vijay has introduced many new directors to the Tamil film industry throughout his career.

Political Timeline of Vijay

2024: In October, Held the first political rally for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, outlining party ideologies.
2024: In September, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam officially registered as a political party.
2024: On February 2, formally launched his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
2021: 'Vijay Makkal Iyakkam' contested local body elections, winning 115 out of 169 seats.
2011: His fan club 'Vijay Makkal Iyakkam' supported the AIADMK alliance in the assembly elections.
2009: Launched his fan club, 'Vijay Makkal Iyakkam'.

Vijay Achievements

Recipient of the Kalaimaamani award from the Government of Tamil Nadu in 1998.

Awarded an honorary Doctorate by the M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute in 2007.

He has won several Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and Filmfare Awards South for his performances.

Credited as the first Kollywood actor to introduce the ₹50 crore club with his film 'Ghilli' in 2004.

He has delivered multiple films that crossed the ₹100 crore mark at the box office, including 'Thuppakki' (2012) and 'Kaththi' (2014).

Won the Best International Actor award at the International Achievements Recognition Awards (IARA) in 2018 for his role in the film 'Mersal'.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs on Vijay)

What are some of Thalapathy Vijay's major achievements in his career?
Vijay has received numerous accolades including the Kalaimaamani award (1998) and an honorary Doctorate (2007). He is credited with introducing the ₹50 crore club in Kollywood with 'Ghilli' (2004) and has multiple ₹100 crore films to his name. He also won the Best International Actor award at the IARA in 2018 for 'Mersal'.
Who is Thalapathy Vijay's wife and children?
Thalapathy Vijay is married to Sangeetha Sornalingam. They tied the knot on August 25, 1999. The couple has two children: a son named Jason Sanjay and a daughter named Divya Saasha.
When did Vijay enter politics?
Vijay formally entered politics on February 2, 2024, by launching his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). His party was officially registered with the Election Commission of India on September 8, 2024, with intentions to contest the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
What is Thalapathy Vijay's net worth?
As of 2024, Thalapathy Vijay's estimated net worth is ₹600 crore. He is one of the highest-paid actors in India, earning a significant amount per film and through brand endorsements.
Who is Thalapathy Vijay?
Thalapathy Vijay, whose full name is Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, is a renowned Indian actor, playback singer, dancer, philanthropist, and politician predominantly associated with Tamil cinema. He is known for his charismatic screen presence and has recently founded his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
What are some of Thalapathy Vijay's major achievements in his career?
Vijay has received numerous accolades including the Kalaimaamani award (1998) and an honorary Doctorate (2007). He is credited with introducing the ₹50 crore club in Kollywood with 'Ghilli' (2004) and has multiple ₹100 crore films to his name. He also won the Best International Actor award at the IARA in 2018 for 'Mersal'.
Who is Thalapathy Vijay's wife and children?
Thalapathy Vijay is married to Sangeetha Sornalingam. They tied the knot on August 25, 1999. The couple has two children: a son named Jason Sanjay and a daughter named Divya Saasha.
When did Vijay enter politics?
Vijay formally entered politics on February 2, 2024, by launching his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). His party was officially registered with the Election Commission of India on September 8, 2024, with intentions to contest the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
What is Thalapathy Vijay's net worth?
As of 2024, Thalapathy Vijay's estimated net worth is ₹600 crore. He is one of the highest-paid actors in India, earning a significant amount per film and through brand endorsements.
Who is Thalapathy Vijay?
Thalapathy Vijay, whose full name is Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, is a renowned Indian actor, playback singer, dancer, philanthropist, and politician predominantly associated with Tamil cinema. He is known for his charismatic screen presence and has recently founded his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

Vijay Latest News & Updates

Vijay Questions CBI Over Karur Tragedy as Assembly Elections Near
On 15 March 2026, actor-turned-politician Vijay appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation for a third time. They are investigating a tragic stampede in Karur that killed 41 people during his political rally last September.Vijay has now requested that all future questioning take place in Tamil Nadu. He needs to focus on the upcoming April elections. His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, is preparing to fight the ruling DMK alone without any alliances.
Vijay Leads Key TVK Meeting in Thanjavur to Strengthen Party for 2026 Elections
On 4 March 2026, actor-politician Vijay addressed a major party meeting in Thanjavur. He met with nearly five thousand functionaries to discuss strategies for the upcoming state elections. This move highlights his goal to build a strong local network in the region.His party, TVK, aims to challenge established powers.
Actor Vijay’s TVK Party Gears Up for Thanjavur Campaign Ahead of 2026 Elections
Actor Vijay’s TVK party will visit Thanjavur on 4 March 2026 for a major campaign. This follows his recent Vellore rally focused on youth welfare.On 27 February 2026, news broke regarding his wife's divorce filing. Despite this, Vijay remains committed to transforming the state’s political landscape for 2026 polls.
Vijay Launches State-Wide Support Drive for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam Election Bid
On 26 February 2026, Vijay officially launched a state-wide drive to form booth-level committees for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. This organisational push aims to strengthen the party's grassroots foundation and ensure a strong regional voter turnout.This will help the party prepare for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections soon.
Vijay Urged to Contest from Perambur as TVK Prepares 2026 Manifesto
On 23 February 2026, TVK chief Vijay visited Vellore to meet party workers. His supporters recently passed a resolution for him to contest from the Perambur constituency. They believe this move will help develop poor areas in North Chennai.The party will release its official manifesto on 27 February 2026.
Vijay’s TVK Party Strengthens Grassroots Presence for 2026 Elections
Vijay, leader of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, is currently preparing for the 2026 state assembly elections. His party is now appointing district coordinators to strengthen local grassroots support and voter engagement efforts across the entire state.This strategic move building a solid political foundation was officially confirmed on February 21, 2026.
Vijay's TVK Eyes Key Seats and 'Whistle' Symbol for 2026 Tamil Nadu Elections
Actor Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, is finalising candidates for the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections. On 10 February 2026, reports indicated Vijay may contest from Velachery and Trichy East to secure urban and regional support.Additionally, the party is defending its newly allotted "whistle" symbol against recent local administrative restrictions.
Vijay’s TVK Launches Manifesto Public Hearings for 2026 Elections
On 7 February 2026, Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, held public hearings in Coimbatore, Trichy, and Chennai to plan its manifesto. Leaders are gathering valuable feedback from citizens.This move marks a major step as the party prepares for the upcoming competitive 2026 state assembly elections across Tamil Nadu now.
Vijay's TVK Party Receives Whistle Symbol for Upcoming 2026 Elections
On 2 February 2026, actor Vijay celebrated the third anniversary of his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Recently, the Election Commission officially allotted the 'whistle' symbol for his campaign. This marks a key step for the party's first state elections.Vijay will likely contest the assembly election from the Velachery seat in Chennai. He is now preparing for a state-wide campaign to challenge established political groups.
Vijay’s TVK Party Gears Up for 2026 Tamil Nadu Campaign
Actor Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, is launching a massive campaign in February 2026 for upcoming state elections. On 30 January 2026, his party members moved the High Court regarding specific rules for public rallies.On 1 February 2026, reports shared that his final movie is preparing for its release.

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