Two days after Vijay recorded a massive victory in the Tamil Nadu State Assembly elections, director and actor Cheran has congratulated the actor-turned-politician, also expressing regret for criticising him before the election.
A month ago, Cheran, penned a long X post criticising Vijay, ahead of the Assembly election. He said charisma and anti-Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam rhetoric are not enough. He stressed that Vijay must clearly outline policies, governance plans and constituency-level solutions instead of relying on “heroic” speeches. Cheran questioned Vijay’s grassroots involvement, noting that established parties have spent decades working with the people. He argued leadership requires accountability, empathy and real engagement with public issues, urging Vijay to present a concrete vision rather than broad statements, and warning that Tamil Nadu needs a leader connected to people’s realities, not just popularity.
On Wednesday, Cheran penned a note on X about Vijay's win. "I wholeheartedly congratulate Mr Vijay, who, in the very first election he contested, garnered immense public support and won in 108 constituencies, as someone from the film world."
Cheran then expressed his happiness about having a different party at the state government after decades. "The joy I feel in your victory is nothing but the wind of freedom blowing across Tamil Nadu... Thank you for freeing the people and me from the clutches of those parties we've suffered under for so many years, allowing us to breathe easy. That was our aim all along, and that's the truth."
Lastly, he regretted criticising the actor-politician and said, "I believe your governance will fulfil the people's wishes and create the necessities for future generations... I regret the criticisms I made against you before the election."
While Cheran and Vijay have not collaborated on a project yet, Cheran once recalled in 2020 when the latter wanted to work with the former after Autograph. Cheran said he had to turn down the chance to direct Vijay, a decision he regrets, because of Thavamai Thavamirundhu.
Vijay secured 108 seats in the elections, with him winning both Trichy East and Perambur. The politician is likely to choose Perambur and resign from Trichy East, with a by-election due for the resigned seat. Meanwhile, Vijay needs 11 more seats to prove a majority and form the government. He is, however, slated to take the oath as Chief Minister-elect on Thursday, May 7, at Nehru Indoor Stadium. He has also requested two weeks of time from the governor to prove majority.
