Photo by Ankush Raj
Prashant Kishor Joins Forces with Vijay’s TVK for 2026 Tamil Nadu Elections
In a significant political development, renowned strategist Prashant Kishor has announced his collaboration with actor-turned-politician Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections. This partnership aims to introduce a transformative political movement in the state, challenging the longstanding dominance of traditional Dravidian parties.
A Movement for Change
Addressing a gathering in Chennai during TVK’s second-anniversary event, Kishor emphasized that his alliance with Vijay is driven by a shared vision for Tamil Nadu’s future. He described TVK not merely as a political entity but as a “movement for change,” reflecting the aspirations of millions seeking dignity, equality, and opportunity. Kishor stated, “I am not here to help my brother, my friend, Vijay. Because he doesn’t need that help. He is a new hope for Tamil Nadu, and that is why I am here.”
Challenging Dynasty Politics
Kishor took the opportunity to critique the prevalent culture of dynasty politics in India. He questioned whether the nation would have celebrated cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar, M.S. Dhoni, or Virat Kohli if the sport had been restricted to the progeny of former stars such as Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev. This analogy underscored his belief in merit-based leadership over hereditary succession.
Aiming for Popularity in Tamil Nadu
Expressing his commitment to the state’s political landscape, Kishor humorously remarked on his ambition to become as popular as M.S. Dhoni in Tamil Nadu. Drawing parallels between Dhoni’s leadership of the Chennai Super Kings and his own political endeavors, he commented, “I have to become the most popular Bihari in Tamil Nadu. So, I have to compete with Dhoni, who makes CSK win. I will make TVK under your leader win. That is why I am here.”
Strategic Collaboration
This alliance marks Kishor’s return to Tamil Nadu’s political arena after previously assisting the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in the 2021 assembly elections. His decision to support TVK stems from a meeting with Vijay in January, where they discovered aligned values and objectives centered on bringing substantive change to the lives of Tamil Nadu’s residents.
Mobilizing for 2026
Kishor urged TVK members and supporters to intensify their efforts in the coming months to build a robust organizational framework capable of challenging the established political order. He expressed confidence in the party’s potential success and pledged to deliver a thank-you speech in Tamil following a victorious 2026 election campaign.
This collaboration between Prashant Kishor and Vijay’s TVK signifies a potential shift in Tamil Nadu’s political dynamics, introducing a new narrative focused on change, inclusivity, and merit-based leadership.
