In Tamil Nadu, politics is taking a different route ahead of the upcoming 2026 state elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is working hard to build its own identity without depending on other parties. Unlike the past, where religion was mostly kept out of politics in Tamil Nadu, the BJP is now openly talking about Hindu culture and temples.
For over sixty years, Tamil Nadu politics was dominated by parties like the DMK, which promoted a rationalist and anti-religious agenda. Now, the BJP is trying to reverse that by openly supporting religious traditions and sentiments. Temples, festivals, and spiritual pride have become part of their campaign language. This is not just a spiritual message, it’s a political one aimed at connecting with the hearts of Tamil people who feel their religious roots were ignored for too long.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Power Star Pawan Kalyan has become a key part of the BJP’s strategy in Tamil Nadu. His presence brings both attention and credibility to the campaign. Pawan, known for blending mass appeal with strong political messaging with his fluent Tamil, has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with BJP leaders, speaking on the need to protect cultural identity and respect religious values and not to forget their huge Telugu population in Tamil Nadu. His involvement signals that the BJP is not just fighting for votes, it’s building a wider movement across South India, with Pawan Kalyan playing a bold and emotional role. The fact that neither Pawan Kalyan nor his party holds positions in the BJP.
But not everyone is happy with this shift. The DMK and other opposition parties have strongly criticised the BJP, saying that the party is trying to divide people by using religion for votes. They argue that Tamil Nadu has always been proud of its secular image, and the BJP is going against that. BJP, on the other hand, says that embracing faith is not communal, it’s cultural.
Political experts say no single party, not even DMK or AIADMK, is likely to win full control this time. Coalition politics will decide who forms the government. New players like TVK are also being watched closely. Meanwhile, BJP is focusing on strengthening its alliances at the local level to ensure it has a solid base when the elections happen.
Actor Vijay, who enjoys massive popularity in Tamil cinema, is being talked about as a possible political force. But analysts remain unsure if his stardom can translate into actual political power, which has been seen in past. They point to past elections where public anger and anti-incumbency mattered more than celebrity charm.
The big story here isn’t just about one party or one election. It’s about how religion, cinema, and identity are coming together in Tamil Nadu’s political scene. With stars like Pawan Kalyan backing the BJP’s cause and a shift towards faith-based campaigning, this election could mark a turning point in Tamil Nadu’s history.
