'Dramatic video oozing cinematic dialogues': TVK chief Vijay faces social media backlash over his Karur stampede apology

Days after the Karur stampede tragedy, which claimed the lives of 41 people, in a social media post, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief actor-politician Vijay said he has never faced such a "painful situation" in his life. 

In a video posted on X, Vijay urged Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin not to punish his supporters.

Reacting to the criticism from various quarters for not visiting Karur and meeting the families of the victims and the injured, he said, "I didn't visit Karur as it would lead to an unusual situation. I will meet you (families of victims, the injured) soon."

However, his explanations met with criticism on social media, with many followers claiming that "It was a dramatic video oozing cinematic dialogues." "No taking accountability, no apology to the families who have lost their loved ones," a user noted.

A pro-BJP X handle, going by the username 'Sanghi Prince' said Vijay should take responsibility for covering the lifetime medical expenses of the wounded, adding that "Only then will this apology for the incident even be acknowledged by the people. You want redemption? Then be better."

"Vijay your "deep pain" rings hollow when 41 lives were lost under TVK's watch fans trampled in a frenzy you could've prevented with basic crowd control.Instead of owning the chaos from hero-worship rallies that turn deadly,you cry vendetta?," noted a user.

"If no problem arose in other districts, why didn’t you ensure the same arrangements in Karur," asked a user, adding, "Calling the people ‘Gods’ is easy, but protecting them was your responsibility."

"If he truly wanted to make a difference, he could have done far better by sticking with cinema — offering meaningful content instead of mass formulas, and using his wealth to uplift the marginalized," said another user.