Philanthropist and wife of actor Rajinikanth, Latha Rajinikanth, on behalf of her Dayaa Foundation, expressed grief over the deaths in the stampede at actor-politician Vijay's TVK campaign in Karur.

In her condolence message, Latha appealed to parents and guardians to refrain from taking their children to large gatherings to ensure their safety and well-being.

Shortly after the tragedy on Saturday, actor Rajinikanth wrote on his social media that he is deeply saddened by the deaths of innocent people in Karur, and offered his condolences and prayers to the families of the deceased and injured.

Disaster struck on Saturday night in Karur's Velusamypuram as at least 39 people, including eight children, were killed in a stampede and several others were injured during the TVK campaign, scheduled for every Saturday covering several assembly segments. The political slugfest ensued minutes after reports surfaced of the stampede. While some sections criticised Vijay's lack of planning and irresponsibility, TVK supporters slammed the ruling DMK government for not allotting the campaign site of their choice and not providing proper protection.

While the state government has announced an ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh to the families of the deceased, Vijay announced that his party will provide a solatium of Rs 20 lakh to the bereaved families and Rs 2 lakh to the injured.