Vijay, born Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar on 22 June 1974 in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India, is a multifaceted personality known for his contributions as an actor, singer, and politician. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, with his father S. A. Chandrasekhar being a film director and his mother Shoba Chandrasekhar a playback singer, Vijay's journey in the world of cinema began at a tender age.
Starting as a child actor in the 1984 Tamil film Vetri, Vijay's early career included roles in movies like Kudumbam, Vasantha Raagam, and Naan Sigappu Manithan alongside Rajinikanth. However, it was his lead role in Naalaiya Theerpu in 1992 that marked a turning point. Over the years, he showcased his versatility with films like Poove Unakkaga, Kadhalukku Mariyadhai, Thulladha Manamum Thullum, Kushi, and Friends.
In 1998, Vijay was honored with the Kalaimaamani award by the Government of Tamil Nadu. The early 2000s saw him achieve unprecedented success with Ghilli, Thirupaachi, and Pokkiri, establishing himself as a leading figure in Tamil cinema. Despite a period of moderate success, he bounced back with films like Bigil, Varisu, and Leo in the late 2010s.
Often referred to as "Thalapathy," meaning commander, Vijay enjoys a massive fan following. In 2009, he launched his fan club, Vijay Makkal Iyakkam, which actively participated in political activities, supporting the AIADMK alliance in the 2011 assembly elections and later contesting in local body elections in Tamil Nadu in 2021.
In a significant move in February 2024, Vijay announced his retirement from films and entered politics with the launch of his own party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. This marked a new chapter in his life, combining his popularity from the film industry with his aspirations in the political arena.
Vijay's personal life includes his marriage to Sangeeta in 1999, with whom he has two children. His son made a cameo appearance in Vettaikaaran (2009), while his daughter portrayed a small role in Theri (2016).
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Vijay has accumulated substantial wealth. As of 2021, his net worth exceeds ₹420 crore. His earnings showcase his stature in the industry, with a reported ₹100 crore salary for Beast and an estimated ₹120 crore–₹150 crore for Varisu in 2023, solidifying his position among the top-paid actors in India.
However, his financial affairs have not been without scrutiny. In 2020, the Income Tax Department conducted a raid at Vijay's residence in Chennai, probing potential tax evasion and investments in immovable properties. Despite the initial concerns, officials later stated that nothing significant was found during the raid.
In July 2021, the Madras High Court dismissed Vijay's writ petition seeking exemption of Entry Tax for his Rolls-Royce Ghost car, imported from the United Kingdom, and imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh. The legal saga continued, with a subsequent stay on the order and eventual dismissal of the critical statements made by the earlier judge.
Vijay's contributions to the film industry have not gone unnoticed. In 1998, he was awarded the Kalaimaamani by the Government of Tamil Nadu, and in 2007, he received an honorary doctorate from the Dr. M.G.R. Educational Institute for his achievements in the film industry. His international acclaim came in 2018 when he was named the Best International Actor in the United Kingdom for his role in Mersal.
Apart from his acting prowess, Vijay is celebrated for his dance moves, described by The Times of India as "energetic and effortless." Zee media has commended his acting skills, highlighting his ability to captivate audiences with his screen presence.
In the realm of popular culture, Vijay is affectionately called "Thalapathy," signifying his significant fan base. This devotion was further immortalized in 2019 when a wax figure of Vijay was unveiled in a museum in Kanyakumari.
As he ventures into a new phase of his career with his foray into politics, Vijay's impact on Tamil cinema and his growing influence in the political landscape continue to shape his legacy as a versatile artist and a charismatic leader. His journey from a child actor to a political figure exemplifies his resilience, determination, and unwavering connection with his audience. The forthcoming release of his 69th and final lead role film, "The Greatest of All Time," adds another layer to Vijay's illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu.
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