Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief Vijay received a thunderous welcome in Tiruchirappalli as he launched his maiden Assembly poll campaign, drawing huge crowds and causing traffic disruptions.

Tiruchirappalli: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) founder and actor-turned-politician Vijay received a rapturous welcome from fans and party workers on Saturday as he began his first campaign tour ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

Arriving from Chennai by chartered flight, Vijay was greeted by frenzied cadres who broke past barricades at the airport to catch a glimpse of their leader. Supporters waved party flags, sported headgear in party colours, and carried posters of the TVK chief, while cultural troupes and women with traditional Poornakumham lined up to mark the occasion.

The sheer volume of crowds turned city traffic chaotic, forcing Vijay’s campaign vehicle to crawl for hours before reaching the rally venue at Marakkadai MGR statue point. Originally scheduled for 10:35 am, his address was delayed by over two hours. Many supporters had gathered since early morning from nearby towns like Manapparai, with some reportedly fainting due to the rush and fatigue.

Police had laid down more than 20 conditions for the rally, but the massive turnout underlined the growing political momentum around Vijay and TVK. Chants of “Tiruppumunaye” (Turning Point) and “Muthalvarey” (Chief Minister) echoed across the crowd, signaling the expectations his supporters place on him as he embarks on his electoral debut.

Vijay’s entry into active politics has clearly electrified his fan base, but the traffic chaos and fainting incidents highlight the challenge of managing enthusiasm with public safety. If the turnout in Tiruchirappalli is any indication, his campaign could reshape voter dynamics in Tamil Nadu’s 2026 race