Chennai: A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu over Ganesh idols allegedly designed in the likeness of Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president C. Joseph Vijay during Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations in Chennai.
The issue surfaced after Vijay-themed Vinayagar idols were installed in areas including Korukkupet and RK Nagar, with some designs drawing inspiration from the actor-politician’s film and political persona. Visuals showed idols reflecting Vijay’s popular cinematic imagery, including references to his 2004 film Ghilli.
BJP demands removal and legal action
Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran has demanded the immediate removal of the idols and action against those responsible for installing them.
Nagenthran argued that using the form of Lord Ganesha for the glorification or political promotion of an individual could hurt the religious sentiments of devotees. He also called for the organisers to be arrested and urged the state administration to intervene.
The BJP leader also questioned Vijay’s response to the controversy, alleging that the absence of an early condemnation had allowed such displays to continue. These are allegations made by the BJP and are not an established finding against Vijay or TVK.
TVK reportedly directs removal
According to reports, TVK sources said party workers had been instructed to remove the controversial idols following the BJP’s objections. Local fans, however, reportedly said that similar Vijay-themed Ganesh idols had been installed in the area for several years.
The controversy has also highlighted the growing overlap between cinema, fan culture and politics in Tamil Nadu. The idols were reportedly created as part of local celebrations and attracted attention on social media, where supporters referred to them as “Vijay Vinayagar.”
The dispute now centres on whether religious festival imagery should incorporate political or celebrity themes, with the BJP seeking administrative and legal action and TVK sources reportedly moving to remove the disputed installations.
