DMK Minister Rebukes Vijay Over ‘Uncle’ Remark
Minister accuses actor-politician Vijay of lacking political maturity.
Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister M R K Panneerselvam launched a scathing attack on actor-turned-politician Vijay, founder of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), for referring to Chief Minister M K Stalin as "uncle" during a recent public event. Speaking to reporters in Chennai on August 25, 2025, Panneerselvam criticized Vijay’s remark as a display of political immaturity and a lack of decorum, accusing the actor of treating politics like a cinematic performance.
“Cinema and politics are not the same,” Panneerselvam asserted, suggesting that Vijay’s comment was an attempt to appeal to his fanbase with a dramatic, movie-like dialogue. “He targeted the DMK leadership, presuming this would serve his political cause, but it only showed his lack of maturity.” The minister’s remarks come amid growing tensions between the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and Vijay’s fledgling TVK, which has been positioning itself as a new force in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
Panneerselvam defended the DMK’s track record, highlighting the party’s commitment to public welfare under Chief Minister Stalin’s leadership. “Our leader has been striving hard to improve the lives of the people through pro-people programs,” he said, citing initiatives like the monthly Rs 1,000 grant for women as evidence of the government’s focus on uplifting marginalized sections. He also emphasized the DMK’s long history of resilience, noting, “We have faced tough times and participated in several protests to champion the people’s cause.”
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Vijay’s “uncle” remark, made during a recent TVK gathering, has sparked controversy, with critics arguing it was disrespectful to Stalin, a veteran politician and the state’s chief minister. Supporters of Vijay, however, view it as a bold move to challenge the DMK’s dominance and appeal to younger voters. The actor’s entry into politics has been closely watched, given his massive fanbase and influence in Tamil cinema, but his early forays have drawn mixed reactions.
Panneerselvam’s sharp rebuke underscores the challenges Vijay faces in transitioning from a celebrated film star to a credible political figure. The minister’s comments suggest that the DMK views Vijay’s political maneuvers as opportunistic and lacking the gravitas required for serious governance. As Tamil Nadu gears up for future elections, the clash between established political heavyweights like the DMK and emerging players like TVK is likely to intensify, with Vijay’s every move under scrutiny.
The controversy also highlights the broader divide between Tamil Nadu’s cinematic and political spheres, where charisma and populism often collide with the demands of policy and governance. For now, Vijay’s attempt to carve out a political identity has stirred debate, but whether he can translate his star power into electoral success remains to be seen.
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