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Vijay's Friend Srinath Battles DMK, AIADMK Heavyweights in Thoothukudi

Actor Srinath is contesting the Thoothukudi Assembly seat as the candidate of actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. He faces a tough challenge from DMK's three-time MLA and minister Geetha Jeevan and AIADMK's former minister S. T. Chellapandian. Srinath is banking heavily on his personal connection to Vijay and the star power demonstrated in a recent massive roadshow. He expresses confidence that this factor will overcome the experience of his established political rivals.

Key Points: Actor Srinath vs DMK, AIADMK in Thoothukudi for Vijay's Party

  • Actor Srinath is TVK's candidate
  • Faces DMK minister Geetha Jeevan
  • Opposes AIADMK's S. T. Chellapandian
  • Banking on Vijay's star power
2 min read

Star vs Stalwarts: Vijay's friend, actor Srinath takes on DMK, AIADMK heavyweights in Thoothukudi

Actor Srinath, fielded by Vijay's TVK, takes on DMK's Geetha Jeevan and AIADMK's S. T. Chellapandian in the Thoothukudi Assembly seat.

"We are ready to take on any sitting minister or former minister. Our USP is our courage. - Srinath"

Thoothukudi, April 11

The Thoothukudi Assembly seat of Tamil Nadu is one of those constituencies where actor Vijay's party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has some positive expectations. Vijay has fielded his friend, actor Srinath, as the party candidate from here. However, the contest is not that easy, as both DMK and AIADMK have fielded senior leaders as their candidates. Still, Srinath is placing greater trust in his own and his friend Vijay's star power.

Speaking to ANI, Srinath said, "The people here have an emotional connection with us."

However, looking at his opponents, the DMK candidate, Geetha Jeevan, is a three-time MLA from this seat and a minister in the current government. Meanwhile, the AIADMK has fielded S. T. Chellapandian, a former minister who won this seat in 2011.

When asked how big a challenge he considers such prominent leaders, Srinath said, "We are ready to take on any sitting minister or former minister. Our USP is our courage. In 2026, we will change the whole scenario."

Srinath said, "We have a super leader like Thalapathy Vijay. I am his best friend. He has given me this constituency because I was born here and I am a native of Thoothukudi. I am doing this campaign with my leader's command, with my whole heart. The response of the people is great. The love for my leader, the love for me, is being showered."

Last Wednesday, Vijay had held a roadshow in Thoothukudi, which saw a massive turnout.

Srinath said, "My party's biggest strength is my leader. He is the brand. Vijay's campaign here for his friend will definitely make a very big impact in Thoothukudi, and we will be in power, Thalapathy will be in power."

Notably, ahead of the April 23 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, April 9 was the last date for the withdrawal of nominations. Following this, a total of 92 candidates are now in the fray from the Thoothukudi district. According to district election officials, constituency-wise, 15 candidates each are contesting from Thoothukudi, Vilathikulam and Srivaikuntam; 13 each from Tiruchendur and Ottapidaram (reserved); and 21 from Kovilpatti in the upcoming Assembly elections.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
Vijay Anna's entry has definitely shaken things up! The roadshow turnout says it all. People are tired of the same old DMK vs AIADMK fight. A fresh face like Srinath, who is a local boy, might just be what's needed. Wishing him all the best! 🙏
R
Ramesh W
"Our USP is our courage" – what does that even mean for governance? Being a friend of a superstar doesn't qualify you to be an MLA. This is a serious constituency with serious issues. I hope voters think beyond the glamour.
P
Priya S
As someone from TN, I find this exciting! The political landscape has been stagnant. Whether he wins or not, TVK is forcing the big parties to sit up and take notice. That's a win for democracy. The youth connect with Vijay's message.
D
David E
Watching from the US. Tamil Nadu politics is always so dramatic! A film star's best friend vs seasoned ministers. It's like a real-life political thriller. Hope the best candidate wins for the people's sake.
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Anjali F
Being a native of Thoothukudi is a plus point for Srinath. He should understand local issues better than someone parachuted in. But he needs to present a concrete vision, not just rely on "Thalapathy's love". The campaign has just begun!

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