The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay, has won the 2026 Assembly elections in a stunning upset that brings to an end almost six decades of Dravidian rule in Tamil Nadu politics.

The party, which is contesting its first election, has not only made a stunning debut but has also established itself as a significant political force in the state. However, despite its outstanding performance, TVK has not met the simple majority needed to establish a government by itself.

A party needs at least 118 seats to have a clear majority in the 234-member Assembly. At the moment, TVK has a lead in 108 seats, which is 10 seats less than the halfway point.

In addition to the math, Vijay has won from two constituencies: Tiruchy East and Perambur. As a result, he will be required to give up one of his seats, which will effectively lower the party’s total by one.

Moreover, one of the elected members of the legislative assembly will need to be chosen as the Speaker. Because the Speaker does not vote during a confidence motion (unless there is a tie), the party’s voting power is once more diminished, making it more reliant on outside help.

This implies that TVK will need the support of at least a dozen more lawmakers in order to confidently demonstrate its majority in the House.

According to the post-election data, a number of smaller parties and coalitions may be important.

The coalition headed by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has won a split mandate, with the Congress taking six seats, the Left parties—the CPI and CPI(M)—taking two seats apiece, and other organizations like the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and the Indian Union Muslim League also gaining representation.

In contrast, the AIADMK-led front has made a comeback with only a small number of seats, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Pattali Makkal Katchi among the parties taking a few. The majority barrier may be easily breached if TVK is able to gain the backing of even a portion of these organizations. Nevertheless, a smaller group of supporters would be sufficient; it is not essential to have the support of every alliance member.

In the interim, Rajendra Arelekar, the governor of Tamil Nadu, is anticipated to start the process of establishing a government.

Vijay may be asked to present his case and demonstrate his majority in the legislature, or he may be requested to provide letters of support from supporting political parties. The Governor may ask the second-largest party, the DMK, to explore the possibility of establishing a government if TVK is unable to prove majority support. If all other options fail, the state may be subject to President’s Rule, followed by new elections within six months.

The Grammy and Oscar-winning music director A. R. Rahman posted a lengthy message on his X, “Heartfelt congratulations to the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam! ” To our dear Mr. Vijay, hoping that you will grow and succeed as a role model leader who will lead Tamil Nadu to the forefront by promoting equality, social justice, and politics free from corruption. May your efforts to turn Chennai into a city rich in art and wealth shine brightly, given its political atmosphere that embraces diversity and honors Tamil and Tamils.