×

A 'whistle' for change? What Vijay's new party symbol means for Tamil Nadu politics

Actor Vijay's political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has been officially allotted the 'whistle' symbol by the Election Commission for its debut in the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections

TVK leader Vijay

The Election Commission has allotted 'whistle' as common symbol for actor Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam's (TVK) candidates in the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly polls. The announcement comes as the party is set to kickstart its campaign programme for its maiden elections.

In a statement, the poll body said 'whistle' symbol has been allotted as common symbol for TVK's candidates in the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly election, considering the party's request. The Commission also said 'battery torch' has been alotted as a common symbol for actor-politician Kamal Haasan's Makkal Needhi Maiam candidates. 

However, the parties would have to field candidates in at least 5 per cent to benefit from the provision. The symbol will also be allotted to other candidates in constituencies where TVK candidates are not contesting.

TVK joint secretary C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar said Vijay chose 'whistle' as the priority symbol from a choice of 10 symbols proposed. Enthusiastic party workers have already taken it across the state, Kumar said.

"The overall expectations and the desire of the people of Tamil Nadu is that our leader should become the chief minister. As a first step, this symbol has been given," Kumar added. The TVK leader said the symbol has already gained popularity among the masses.

The 2026 assembly polls will be the maiden contest for the actor-led party. The announcement came as the party's executive body is set to meet on January 25 to finalise campaign strategy for the upcoming polls. TVK secretary Bussy N. Anand said state and district-level party functionaries who have been issued permission passes with a QR code will be able to attend the event. 

Meanwhile, in a cryptic post, senior Congress leader Praveen Chakravarty said whistle has been blown for Tamil Nadu elections. The TN 2026 election 'whistle' is blown! All parties are now Ready Set Go :)," Chakravarty tweeted.