New era of cooperation? Chief Minister Vijay meets predecessor MK Stalin

CHENNAI: In his first major diplomatic move since assuming office, Tamil Nadu’s newly sworn-in Chief Minister Vijay paid a courtesy visit to former CM M.K. Stalin at his residence today. The meeting, characterised by warmth and mutual respect, saw the Chief Minister being received by Stalin and his son, Udhayanidhi Stalin.

Visuals shared by the DMK patriarch on social media platform X captured Udhayanidhi welcoming Vijay with a handshake and an embrace, followed by a cordial greeting from Stalin. The leaders exchanged traditional shawls and floral bouquets during the brief interaction.

According to sources within the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), this visit is part of a broader outreach program. Chief Minister Vijay intends to personally visit the residences of several veteran political figures across the state to seek their counsel and "blessings" as he begins his administrative tenure.

While meetings with VCK President Thol. Thirumavalavan and MDMK’s Vaiko are reportedly on the Chief Minister's itinerary; a potential meeting with the AIADMK leadership remains shrouded in uncertainty.

This series of high-profile meetings follows yesterday’s historic swearing-in ceremony at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where the actor-turned-politician officially took the reins of the state. The event was attended by a galaxy of stars and political heavyweights, most notably the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, signalling the national significance of the state’s political shift.