Actor–politician Kamal Haasan has reiterated that he does not view Thalapathy Vijay or his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), as rivals in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. Speaking at the Hortus Art and Literature Festival in Kerala, Haasan said his primary battle is against casteism, which he described as the most destructive force in society.
When asked about his key adversary ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Haasan said his fight goes beyond party competition.
“My direct enemy is casteism,” he stated.
He added that the issue is so deeply entrenched and violent that it demands urgent and deliberate action.
Haasan dismissed comparisons between his party Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) and Vijay's TVK, calling such discussions premature. He clarified that both parties have different purposes and voter bases.
‘Vijay Is My Brother, Not a Rival’
Addressing whether he would mentor Vijay in politics, Haasan refused to offer advice.
“I never received advice at the right moment, so I won’t give it now,” he said.
Haasan added that experience is the best teacher and that Vijay would carve his own path.
Both actors have taken different routes into politics — Haasan in 2018 and Vijay earlier this year — but Haasan emphasised that political maturity comes from active participation, not mentorship.
Balancing Cinema and Politics
Haasan also spoke about juggling films and political commitments. He was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life and is currently working on a film directed by the Anbariv duo, alongside producing another project starring Rajinikanth.
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