Chennai, Aug 21 (IANS) – With the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections drawing closer, actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is set to showcase its political strength at the party’s second state conference in Madurai on Thursday.
The mega event, being held on a sprawling 506-acre venue at Parapathi along the Madurai–Thoothukudi National Highway, comes after TVK’s maiden convention near Vikravandi in Villupuram district last year.
The stage design and decorations underline the party’s ambitions, featuring giant cut-outs of C.N. Annadurai, M.G. Ramachandran, and Vijay under the slogan “The history of voters returns.” Seating has been arranged for nearly two lakh volunteers, with a 300-metre ramp walkway built to allow closer interaction with the leader. Over 40 spotlights have been installed along the ramp, while 200 high-powered tower lights will illuminate the grounds.
The organisers have also added features to set the conference apart from other political gatherings. An 8,000-metre underground water supply system with multiple tanks will ensure drinking water availability, while extensive parking facilities have been prepared to manage the expected crowds.
Security is being enforced at an unprecedented scale, with a two-layer protection system comprising 550 bouncers (including 50 women), 2,000 private security personnel, and 3,000 police officers.
Preparations, however, faced a hiccup on Wednesday when a crane hoisting a 100-foot flagpole malfunctioned, causing it to fall on a parked car. The incident caused damage but no injuries.
Arriving in Madurai on Wednesday evening, Vijay personally inspected the arrangements, reviewed them with officials, and instructed party workers to ensure smooth conduct of the event for the volunteers.
With thousands of supporters already converging in Madurai, the conference is seen as a defining moment in TVK’s political journey, as the party positions itself for its first major electoral test in 2026.
