HomeEntertainmentRegionalThalapathy Vijay: How the Tamil superstar became a cultural and political phenomenon

Thalapathy Vijay: How the Tamil superstar became a cultural and political phenomenon

Actor and politician Thalapathy Vijay, a cultural icon in Tamil cinema for over three decades. Known for his mass appeal on-screen and off, Vijay continues to captivate audiences with his films and political presence.

September 28, 2025 / 18:36 IST
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Thalapathy Vijay has became a cultural icon
Thalapathy Vijay has became a cultural icon

Actor and politician Thalapathy Vijay has recently made headlines following a tragic stampede during his rally in Karur that took around 36 lives. Hundreds and thousands of fans gathered at Karur for his political rally just to have a glimpse of Vijay.

Vijay has been in the entertainment industry for over three decades and has eventually become a cultural icon whose impact extends well beyond Tamil Nadu. He has established himself as one of the most lovable and bankable actors in Indian cinema.

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He has ruled over millions with his resilience, growth, and an unparalleled connection with the audience since he was a young actor in the 1990s.

He made an impression on the audience as the "boy-next-door" early in his career, which won over family audiences.  He transformed himself into a fantastical mass hero over time, striking a balance between commercial entertainment and socially conscious stories. Vijay has since evolved as "Thalapathy," the leader of the masses.