Rajinikanth Backs Stalin for 2026, Calls Him “Star of Indian Politics” as Vijay Kicks Off Campaign

Chennai, Sept 2025 : Superstar Rajinikanth on Saturday expressed confidence in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s victory in the 2026 assembly elections, calling him the “star of Indian politics.” Speaking at the 50th Golden Jubilee celebrations of music maestro Ilaiyaraaja, Rajinikanth praised Stalin for challenging the BJP-led NDA at the Centre as well as his political rivals in the state.

“MK Stalin is emerging as a star in Indian politics. He is posing a challenge not only to the ruling government at the Centre but also to both his new and old rivals. My friend looks all set for 2026 with his distinctive smile,” Rajinikanth said, addressing the gathering.

The event was attended by Chief Minister Stalin, actor-politician Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, and Ilaiyaraaja, drawing attention for its rare convergence of cinema, politics, and culture. Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu are expected early next year, though the Election Commission of India has yet to announce dates.

Interestingly, Rajinikanth’s endorsement of Stalin came on the very day when actor-turned-politician Vijay, chief of Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), launched his election campaign with a massive rally in Tiruchirappalli district. Vijay’s fiery speech targeted the ruling DMK government, accusing it of failing to deliver on key promises from its 2021 manifesto.

“What of the 505 assurances given by them has been implemented? Where is the reduction of diesel prices by ₹3, the calculation of monthly electricity bills, waiver of education loans, 40% reservation for women in government jobs, restoration of the old pension scheme, and filling of two lakh government vacancies?” Vijay asked the crowd, adding that his campaign was rooted in accountability and people’s welfare.

The contrasting political signals — Rajinikanth’s praise for Stalin and Vijay’s direct challenge to the DMK — highlight the sharpening contest ahead of the 2026 polls. The state is already witnessing churn, with AMMK general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran recently announcing his party’s exit from the NDA alliance, dealing a setback to the AIADMK-BJP front.

As the battle lines firm up, the ruling DMK faces a multipronged contest: from the AIADMK-BJP combine, Vijay’s newly-formed TVK, and smaller regional players. Rajinikanth’s open support for Stalin adds a new layer of intrigue to the campaign season, signaling that cinema and politics remain deeply intertwined in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.