As actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay gains momentum with his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the Congress in Tamil Nadu seems eager to align with the star’s growing influence. Sources indicate that senior Congress leaders are persuading the party high command in Delhi to strategically leverage Vijay’s popularity in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

The Congress, seeking a larger share of seats in the ruling DMK-led alliance, reportedly views an understanding with Vijay’s TVK as a move to rejuvenate its appeal among young and first-time voters. This newfound closeness between the Congress and TVK, however, has caught the attention of the DMK, which is said to be watching the developments warily.

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin recently dropped a cryptic remark during a public event, saying “the hand is leaving,” while standing alongside a Congress MP — a pointed reference to the Congress symbol, fueling speculation of brewing tension within the alliance.

Meanwhile, DMK sources suggest that discussions are on to offer Congress constituencies previously held by the AIADMK, as part of a revised seat-sharing arrangement. Still, party leaders say any final decision on alliances and seat allocations will ultimately rest with the Congress high command.

Adding to the speculation, Congress MP Manickam Tagore praised Vijay’s political rise, calling him “the main emerging force challenging the opposition INDI alliance in Tamil Nadu.” He further said, “The Congress respects anyone who stands against the BJP and RSS.”

Tagore also dismissed fears of a split, asserting confidence in the Congress’ future: “Seat-sharing talks are routine. The Congress will fight strongly in 2026. The BJP is attempting ‘vote chori’ through SIR and voter deletions, but people are with us,” he said.

While Tagore refrained from confirming a formal alliance with Vijay, he lauded the actor’s opposition to the Simultaneous Elections Bill (SIR) and delimitation, saying, “It’s too early to discuss alliances, but Vijay’s stance is appreciated.”