Vijay

Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu

On May 10, 2026, C. Joseph Vijay officially took the oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, beginning his first term in public office. He is an Indian politician and founder-leader of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, who entered electoral politics after a highly successful career in the Tamil film industry.

Widely known as Vijay, he emerged as a major political force in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election through a campaign centered on governance, welfare, and youth outreach.

As of 2026, his assumption of office as Chief Minister marked a historic transition from cinema to state leadership, establishing him as one of the most prominent new political figures in contemporary Tamil Nadu politics.

By Rashmi | Thursday, July 16, 2026, 10:45:32 AM [IST]

Vijay Biography

Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, born 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.

In the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election, TVK fielded him from both Perambur and Tiruchirappalli (East) constituencies. He won Perambur with 120,365 votes and a margin of 53,715, while also securing Tiruchirappalli (East) with 91,381 votes and a margin of 27,416, marking a major electoral success. Following his party’s victory in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election, he was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on May 10, 2026, and assumed charge of the new government.

Vijay Personal Life

Full Name	Vijay
Date of Birth	22 Jun 1974 (Age 52)
Place of Birth	Chenniai, Tamil Nadu
Party Name	Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam
Party Position	President
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

Net Worth

₹640.51 CRORE

ASSETS

₹640.51 CRORE

Liabilities

N/A

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

2026 May: Led his party to victory in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election and took oath as Chief Minister on May 10.
2026 May: Won from Perambur with 120,365 votes (margin 53,715) and from Tiruchirappalli (East) with 91,381 votes (margin 27,416) as TVK candidate.
2026 March: Contesting the Tamil Nadu Assembly election from the Perambur and Tiruchirappalli (East) constituency, continuing his active engagement in state politics and public affairs.
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

CM Vijay to Lead Cabinet Meeting for Tamil Nadu's First TVK Budget
On 16 July 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay will chair a key cabinet meeting in Chennai. This meeting focuses on the state's upcoming budget, which is the first under his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).The leaders will discuss new welfare schemes and industrial projects. This follows recent efforts by the TVK government to investigate alleged bribery attempts against its members. Ministers are also working to implement promises made during the 2026 elections.
CM Vijay visits Karur to support stampede victims' families
On 10 July 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay visited Karur for the first time since taking office in May. He met families affected by the tragic stampede that occurred during a party roadshow last year.During his visit, the Chief Minister handed over government job appointment orders to the family members of 32 victims. This move aims to provide long-term financial security and support to those who lost loved ones.
CM Vijay to provide jobs to families of Karur stampede victims
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay will visit Karur on 10 July 2026. He plans to meet the families of those who died in a tragic stampede last year. This event occurred during his party rally on 27 September 2025.During his visit, Vijay will hand over government job appointment orders to 32 legal heirs of the victims. These appointments are made on compassionate grounds. The families have expressed hope that these jobs will help them after their immense personal losses.In addition to the ceremony, the Chief Minister will launch a new industrial project. He will lay the foundation stone for a large footwear factory in Krishnarayapuram. This 1,700 crore rupee project is expected to create many local manufacturing jobs for the youth.
CM Vijay Formalises Strategic Secular Alliance for Tamil Nadu Future
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and TVK leader C. Joseph Vijay officially transitioned his informal bloc into a formal electoral alliance on 1st July 2024. This key decision was made during a high-level coordination meeting held with various political partners in Mamallapuram.The new alliance includes the Congress, VCK, IUML, and MDMK. A coordination committee will now be formed to frame a common minimum programme. This move aims to solidify political presence and streamline campaign efforts ahead of the state's upcoming local and general polls.
CM Vijay Unveils 'Vision Document' for Tamil Nadu Development in First Assembly Session
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government revealed its five-year development roadmap on 19 June 2026. The plan focus on water security and social justice. It aims to boost economic growth while protecting the state's cultural identity through new technology and industrial reforms.The government also announced the launch of 'Vettri News' on 22 June 2026 to coincide with Vijay’s birthday. This new media platform will cover political updates and public welfare. Officials are also looking for alternative sites for the Chennai greenfield airport to protect local agricultural lands.
TVK Chief Vijay Assesses Election Performance Following Record High Voter Turnout in Tamil Nadu
On 24 April 2026, actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam president Vijay met with party seniors to review the recent assembly elections. He described the historic 85 per cent voter turnout as a major shift. The leader thanked his supporters for their dedication during the high-stakes campaign.Vijay stated that the active participation of young people and women has redefined state politics. He believes this marks the beginning of a larger transformation in the region. The party now awaits the official results on 4 May 2026 to see the impact of their debut.
Actor Vijay and TVK Make Electoral Debut as Voting Begins in Tamil Nadu
Actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), have reached a major milestone today. On 23 April 2026, the state of Tamil Nadu began voting in a single-phase election. This is the first time the party is competing for power.Vijay is personally contesting from two seats, Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East. He has chosen to run without any political alliances. His campaign focuses on social justice and secularism. He hopes to offer a new choice to voters beyond the traditional major parties.
Vijay to Introduce 234 TVK Candidates Ahead of Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections
Actor-turned-politician Vijay is set to introduce all 234 candidates for his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), today, 29 March 2026. This grand event in Chennai follows a successful appeal to the Election Commission after initial permissions were denied.Vijay will also file his official nomination for the Perambur constituency on 30 March. This marks a major step for TVK as it prepares to contest the state elections independently. The move aims to challenge established parties with a fresh political vision.
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.

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