The Times of India

In a stunning shift, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has transformed Tamil Nadu's political dynamics, relegating the DMK to the opposition role and leaving the AIADMK trailing in third place. This new political force has made substantial strides in regions traditionally dominated by Dravidian parties, especially shaking up DMK's influence in the northern districts and the south's 'thevar belt'.

Vijay's transformation from a shy child star to a perseverant cinematic icon is not just a tale of talent, but a narrative of determination that now propels him towards a political career. His formative years, filled with challenges and triumphs exemplified by the hit 'Poove Unakkaga,' reveal a spirit that refuses to wane.

Fans get a high when Vijay sings Pathaathu bottle naan kudikka, andaala konda cheers adikka (One bottle isnt enough for me, bring it to me in a drum to say cheers). The intoxication has now been translated into votes; the contrarian is suddenly the outlier.

While thanking the voters for voting for the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), Stalin congratulated the winners.

In a surprising debut, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) candidate Sabarinathan R, son of the party chief's driver, is leading in Virugambakkam. This human-interest story highlights TVK's strong performance in its first assembly election, with the party showing significant leads across Tamil Nadu, challenging established political forces.

The TVK provided a formidable challenge, with its candidate V Senthilkumar nearly pulling off an upset by securing a massive 57,176 votes.

Early trends from Tamil Nadu Assembly seat counting indicate a significant surge for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician Vijay. The party emerged as a major force, briefly leading in over 100 constituencies and becoming the single largest party ahead of established players. Official results have begun to be declared for some seats.

Actor Vijay's TVK party is making a strong debut in Madurai's assembly elections. The party is leading in several key constituencies, including Madurai East and Madurai Central. Established parties DMK and AIADMK face unexpected challenges. TVK candidates are ahead of sitting ministers and incumbent MLAs. This election marks a significant shift in Madurai's political landscape.

The result carried added significance as Sengottaiyan, a veteran leader with deep roots in the region, shifted from AIADMK to TVK, giving the contest unusual importance. His win suggested his personal influence remained strong and that voters in Gobichettipalayam transferred their trust to him despite his change in party affiliation.

As counting commenced, the DMK surged across Tamil Nadu, consolidating strongholds and making steady gains, particularly in urban areas and traditional bastions. The AIADMK-led opposition held select pockets, while actor Vijay's TVK emerged as a significant force, leading in early postal ballot trends.

Even as several incumbent DMK ministers, former ADMK ministers, and star candidates are losing their safe seats and stronghold, Leema with a declared net assets at Rs 1,049.5 crore as per her poll nomination papers is maintaining substantial lead in all rounds of vote counting on Monday.

In the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, TVK and Naam Tamilar Katchi are the only parties fielding Brahmin candidates, with TVK's candidates currently leading. Early trends show TVK emerging as a significant force, leading in over a hundred constituencies across various regions of the state, including traditional Dravidian strongholds and Congress strongholds.

Palaniswami secured 85,553 votes and is leading by 54,458 in the Edappadi constituency.

TVK has been leading in 109 constituencies and is on its way towards single largest majority (118 seats are required for forming majority).

Actor-turned-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is poised to reshape Tamil Nadu's political landscape, leading in 109 constituencies in early election results. This strong debut challenges established parties, potentially ending decades of DMK-AIADMK dominance and marking a significant shift in state politics.

Actor-turned-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is making a strong debut in Tamil Nadu's assembly elections, leading in 107 seats. Early trends suggest a significant political shift, potentially ending the DMK's bid for a third consecutive term and challenging the long-standing dominance of Dravidian parties. Vijay himself is leading in multiple constituencies as celebrations erupt among supporters.

Party founder and actor Vijay personally led from the front, holding strong leads in both Perambur and Trichy East constituencies.

As TVK chief Vijay continues to emerge as a strong force in Tamil Nadu during the ongoing vote counting on Monday, actor Tiger Shroff has congratulated to the party with a warm message.

Police presence outside the party office was scaled down as the day progressed, and cadres began dismantling temporary shelters erected ahead of the results. The thinning crowd and muted activity reflected a sharp shift from the usual election-day bustle.

According to the official data released at the end of round 1, Vignesh is leading, marking a strong debut for actor-turned-politician Vijay's party in the Coimbatore district.

In some booths, the TVK candidate has secured 50-100 votes more than the DMK candidate.

Chaos unfolded at Chennai airport when a passenger from an Air Arabia flight made a startling decisionhe opened the emergency exit and jumped out right after landing. When approached by authorities, he cited feelings of nausea as his reason.

A devoted supporter of TVK party leader Vijay attempted suicide by slitting his throat in Krishnagiri after hearing rumors of Vijay's potential election loss. Rescued by locals, he is receiving intensive treatment at a government hospital. The incident, occurring before official results, has caused local shock and prompted political leaders to urge supporters against acting on rumors.

Inspired by India's 2022 Thomas Cup win, Tamil Nadu's Hariharan Amsakarunan achieved his dream of representing the nation, becoming the first from his state to be part of the bronze medal-winning campaign. Overcoming early financial struggles and training with plastic shuttlecocks, Hariharan's journey highlights dedication and team spirit in achieving national success.

A tense situation unfolded at Chennai International Airport when a passenger reportedly opened an emergency exit on an Air Arabia flight from Sharjah. The aircraft, carrying 231 people, was taxiing when the incident occurred. Security forces swiftly responded, detaining the 34-year-old passenger for questioning and assessment of his mental state.