Actor Rajinikanth has praised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, expressing confidence in his victory in the 2026 Assembly elections. He called Stalin "the star of Indian politics".
"MK Stalin is emerging as a star in Indian politics," Rajinikanth said. "He is posing a challenge not only to the ruling government at the Centre but also to his new and old rivals. My friend, with his trademark smile, appears all set for 2026."
Other than Rajinikanth, the 50th Golden Jubilee Celebration of Tamil Musician was also attended by CM Stalin, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) President and actor Kamal Haasan, and the musician Ilaiyaraaja. The comments from Rajinikanth come as Tamil Nadu prepares for the Legislative Assembly Elections, although the Election Commission of India (ECI) has not yet announced a date.
Interestingly, Rajinikanth's show of support for Stalin is of relevance since the election campaign by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay, has also started. A day before, he held a large rally in Tiruchirappalli district.
Vijay gave a fiery speech questioning the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam over what he called its "unfulfilled" electoral promises from the 2021 manifesto. He began by saying, "In the olden days, before going to war, people would first visit their family deity for blessings. Similarly, before heading for an electoral battle, I wanted to meet my people and greet you all."
He, further, added: "Out of the 505 assurances they made, what has been implemented? Where is the Rs 3 reduction in diesel prices, the monthly electricity bill calculation, the waiver of student education loans, 40 per cent job reservation for women in government services, the restoration of the old pension scheme, and the filling of two lakh government vacancies?".
Political tensions in Tamil Nadu are escalating in the lead-up to the 2026 elections. Earlier this month, AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran announced that the party was "coming out of the NDA Alliance," which was a blow to the AIADMK-BJP alliance. The AIADMK-BJP alliance will now be in a three-way contest with the ruling DMK and the newly launched TVK, which will be contesting independently.
Also read: DMK is people's party, asserts MK Stalin
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