I am not jealous of Thalapathy Vijay - Rajinikanth

On May 17, 2026, at a press conference held at his Poes Garden residence in Chennai, veteran Tamil cinema star Rajinikanth expressed his views on the appointment of actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay (C. Joseph Vijay) as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Breaking the dominance of the DMK and AIADMK parties, which had lasted for nearly seven decades, Vijay's TVK party achieved a resounding victory in the Tamil Nadu state elections held in April 2026, securing over 108 seats and forming a government. Vijay was sworn in as Chief Minister with a young cabinet on May 10 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai, and Rajinikanth stated that he was deeply shocked by this historic event. However, he emphasized that he harbored no jealousy or dislike regarding it.

Recalling that a long time had passed since he retired from politics, Rajinikanth stated that Vijay's victory surpassed even the triumphs of stalwarts like MGR and NTR. He further added that he was happy and surprised that Vijay, who is 25 to 28 years younger than him, fought alone against the two main parties at such a young age and emerged victorious. Rajinikanth also pointed out that since the people expect a lot from Vijay, it is his responsibility to fulfill those public expectations.

Rajinikanth also vehemently denied the rumors and allegations of political conspiracy circulating regarding his meeting with former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin around May 6, after the election results were released. He stated that Stalin has been a close friend of his for 38 to 40 years, and their friendship and principles go beyond politics. Expressing his regret over Stalin's defeat in the Kolathur constituency, Rajinikanth rejected accusations that he acted as a broker to unite the DMK and AIADMK parties against Vijay, firmly stating that he is not a third-class person who engages in such low acts.

He also provided an explanation for not answering questions about Vijay and leaving with folded hands and a smile at Chennai Airport on May 12. He stated that since he had publicly congratulated Vijay and the members of the winning party via his X account on May 4, immediately after the election results were released, there was no need to comment on it again that day. He also made a joke that he might have different feelings about Vijay due to his history with Kamal Haasan, but emphasized that he has no rivalry with Vijay. Rajinikanth's truthful statement, which criticized the acceptance of social media rumors as facts, was even endorsed by DMK party spokespersons, and fans from both sides on social media appreciated his mature comments and positive approach.