In a massive show of strength ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and Tamil superstar Vijay addressed a mega rally in Salem on Friday, February 13, 2026. Taking a sharp and unconventional stance on the state’s notorious “cash-for-vote” culture, Vijay urged the massive gathering to accept money if offered by rival parties but to remain loyal to the ballot.
“Take the money they give—it is your own tax money being returned—but when you stand before the machine, vote for the ‘Whistle’,” Vijay declared, pointing to his party’s newly allotted election symbol. He confidently asserted that the tradition of buying votes would crumble now that he has entered the political arena, positioning TVK as a “pure force” against the established ” Dravidian majors.”
Key Highlights from the Salem Address:
- The Symbol: The Election Commission of India (ECI) officially allotted the ‘Whistle’ symbol to TVK in January 2026. Vijay leaned into his cinematic identity, referencing his “Whistle Podu” roots to build an immediate connection with the youth.
- Attack on DMK & AIADMK: Without explicitly naming them, Vijay slammed the ruling DMK and opposition AIADMK for their dependence on national allies (Congress and BJP). He pitched himself as the only independent alternative capable of “single-handed” governance.
- Welfare War: Vijay questioned the timing of Chief Minister MK Stalin’s ₹2,000 “summer special package,” alleging it was a desperate move to counter TVK’s growing popularity among women voters.
- Crowd Management: Following the tragic stampede in Karur in September 2025, the Salem rally saw unprecedented security and digital live-streaming for fans who couldn’t secure entry passes.
The rally marks a turning point in the 2026 campaign, as Vijay shifts from symbolic gestures to direct, aggressive grassroots mobilization in traditional strongholds like Salem.