Vijay picks long-time driver's son as MLA candidate; emotional scenes during TVK candidates' announcement

CHENNAI: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief C Joseph Vijay announced the first list of candidates for the Tamil Nadu assembly elections today. Vijay himself will contest from Perambur and Trichy East with the intention to widen the party’s presence in central and northern Tamil Nadu.

Among the candidate list was an interesting pick. The moment turned emotional when Vijay announced the name of candidate Shabarinathan for Virugambakkam. The youngster could not hold his tears and was seen embracing Vijay on stage. Shabarinathan is the son of Vijay’s long-time driver, Rajendran. Vijay also summoned Rajendran on stage, making the announcement wholesome.

Rajendran has been with Vijay for over 30 years, while Shabarinathan is known for welfare activities and is involved in social work. In 2025, Vijay made Shabarinathan the District Secretary of TVK for the Virugambakkam constituency.

TVK in the election manifesto promised anti-drug units in schools and education loans for students. TVK emphasises employment as a way to development and assured 75% job opportunities for locals in private firms with incentives.

#ThalapathyVijay has given an MLA seat to his personal car driver Rajendran’s son, Sabrinathan.
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