Today, C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister in a colourful ceremony attended by top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, ushering in the first non-DMK, non-AIADMK government in the southern state in 60 years. His cabinet was a mix of the young and the experienced, with the 51-year-old actor-turned-politician's core team finding a place in his maiden ministry.
In his first address, Vijay said he was not from any royal lineage and that people welcomed and accepted him. He said he will not deceive people with false promises.
Governor RV Arlekar administered the oath of office and secrecy to Vijay and nine of his cabinet members, who included Dravidian veteran K A Sengottaiyan and young faces Dr TK Prabhu and S Keerthana.
His first signature on government files was to provide 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers, creating a special force for women's safety.
Amid continuous "whistling" by TVK cadres, Vijay took oath as the chief minister in the name of God and the ministers too took the oath in the name of God unlike most in the outgoing DMK regime.
A fresh, new governance has started, and a new era of real, secular, social justice starts now, he added.
TVK leaders Aadhav Arjuna, N Anand, R Nirmal Kumar, KG Arunraj and Sengottaiyan-- all considered members of Vijay's inner team, took oath as ministers.
The Sunday swearing-in ushered in the first non-DMK, non-AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu, the Dravidian heartland, in about 60 years, and came amidst a euphoric atmosphere with Viay fans and supporters relishing the occasion.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium transformed into a sea of excitement as thousands gathered to witness the historic transformation of their 'Thalapathy' (Commander) into 'Muthalamaichar,' the CM.
The atmosphere across the city was one of hard-won victory and high expectations. Inside the venue, the mood was electric. "We are very happy because of Thalapathy," a supporter said, echoing the sentiments of the crowds arriving since dawn.
Whistles, the TVK symbol, blared like microphones while supporters flashed the party coloured shawls, with the dominant yellow, to celebrate their leader's ascent to power.
The emotional weight of the day was most visible at the residence of Vijay’s father, Chandrasekhar. Vijay’s mother, Shoba Chandrasekhar, expressed immense confidence in her son's new role, stating, "Vijay will lead this well; I have full faith in him".
The cultural impact of the day was also evident as members of the film fraternity, including actor Trisha, were seen leaving their residences to attend the ceremony. The event falls on Mother's Day, a coincidence noted by several family members and supporters as a poetic start for the "true son of Tamil Nadu".
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