C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on May 10, bringing an end to days of speculation over the formation of the new government. The former actor made a historic political debut in the state elections, marking a major milestone in his transition from cinema to politics. Vijay had announced his retirement from acting in December last year to focus entirely on his political journey as the leader of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Ram Charan said during Peddi event, "I want to congratulate Tamil Nadu CM. Honourable CM Joseph Vijay garu left behind peak stardom to serve the people. From someone in the film industry, I'm very, very proud and I congratulate both the people of Tamil Nadu and Vijay sir."
For the unversed, Vijay has joined the ranks of legendary actor-turned-politicians such as N. T. Rama Rao, M. G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa. His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), shook Tamil Nadu politics by defeating both Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
TVK won 108 seats in its debut Assembly election and later secured the support of 120 MLAs in the 234-member House, crossing the majority mark of 118.
Meanwhile, Jana Nayagan is being promoted as Vijay's final film as an actor. Originally scheduled for a January 9 release, the film was delayed after certification issues. It also stars Mamitha Baiju, Pooja Hegde and Bobby Deol. The film was leaked online in April, prompting the makers to initiate legal action. So far, six people have reportedly been arrested for illegally circulating the movie.