In a high-energy strategy meeting in Mamallapuram on Sunday, January 25, 2026, actor-politician Thalapathy Vijay officially unveiled the whistle as the election symbol for his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
The event, attended by thousands of party functionaries, was a clear signal of the party’s readiness for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
The Symbol: Why a Whistle?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) officially allotted the symbol on January 21, 2026.
- Cinematic Connect: The whistle is a direct nod to the “Whistle Podu” anthem from Vijay’s 2019 blockbuster Bigil.
- Symbolism: Vijay described the whistle as a “sound of joy” and a tool for the common people to celebrate victory and alert society to injustice.
- Practicality: The party plans to distribute physical whistles during rallies, making it a portable and interactive campaign tool.
“Cuppu Mukiyam, Bigilu”
During his speech, Vijay invigorated the crowd by referencing his iconic dialogue: “Cuppu mukiyam, Bigilu” (The cup/trophy is important, Bigil). He used the metaphor to state that while political noise exists, his eyes are firmly set on the “prize”—winning the 2026 elections.
Sharp Political Attacks
Vijay took a direct aim at the state’s dominant Dravidian parties:
- On AIADMK: He accused them of “directly surrendering” to the BJP.
- On DMK: He alleged the ruling party has “indirectly surrendered” to the BJP, despite their public rhetoric.
- The “Wild Card”: Vijay positioned TVK as the only force that “does not bow down to pressure,” challenging rivals who have underestimated him for three decades.
The Jana Nayagan Connection
The symbol launch occurs amidst a tense standoff with the Censor Board (CBFC) over his final film, Jana Nayagan.
- The Row: The film was stalled from its January 9 release due to its heavy political overtones.
- Next Step: The Madras High Court is set to deliver its final verdict on the censor row this Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
TVK Leadership & Core Team
| Name | Position | Background |
| Bussy Anand | General Secretary | Long-time head of Vijay Makkal Iyakkam (VMI). |
| K.A. Sengottaiyan | Senior Leader | Former 9-time AIADMK MLA and Minister who recently joined TVK. |
| Aadhav Arjuna | General Secretary (Election Mgmt) | Strategist overseeing the 234-constituency roadmap. |
| J.C.D. Prabhakar | Manifesto Committee | Former AIADMK MLA and veteran political hand. |