Actor and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay turned 52 on June 22, marking his first birthday since taking office. Wishes poured in from actors, political leaders and fans across social media, with actor Keerthy Suresh sharing a heartfelt message that reflected on Vijay’s transition from cinema icon to political leader.Taking to X, Keerthy shared a picture with Vijay and penned a special note celebrating the new chapter in his life.“For years, your birthday meant waiting for a first look, a teaser, a trailer, or the announcement of a new film. It became a ritual we all looked forward to. This year feels different,” she wrote.
‘You are reintroducing yourself as a leader’
Keerthy went on to acknowledge Vijay’s shift from the silver screen to public service, saying that his latest role was perhaps his most significant yet.“For the first time in over a decade, there isn’t a new character being introduced to the world. Instead, we are witnessing something far more significant. You are reintroducing yourself, not as a hero on screen, but as a leader stepping into a new chapter of service and responsibility.”She further added, “This year, we celebrate a new look for a brand new journey, and we are all here rooting for you.”Ending her message in Tamil, she wrote, “என்றென்றும் நம் நெஞ்சில் குடியிருக்கும் தளபதிக்கு இனிய பிறந்தநாள் வாழ்த்துகள்,” extending warm birthday wishes to the leader popularly known as Thalapathy.
Vijay’s political journey
Vijay is celebrating his first birthday as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after successfully transitioning from cinema to politics. He has joined the league of influential actor-turned-politicians such as N.T. Rama Rao, M.G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa.In February 2024, Vijay announced his political ambitions and confirmed that he would contest the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. He subsequently launched his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), and held his first major public rally in October 2024. Since then, Vijay has travelled extensively across Tamil Nadu, addressing public meetings, interacting with citizens and presenting his vision for the state directly to the people.
