k s palani

DMK candidate Dr. Kalai Kathiravan secured victory in the Tenkasi Assembly election by a margin of 10,299 votes. This follows a closely contested 2021 election where the INC narrowly won, and a recent 2024 general election where the DMK also triumphed in the Tenkasi Lok Sabha constituency.

Tamil Nadu's high voter turnout signals a crucial election. Chief Minister Stalin's DMK seeks continuity, while the AIADMK aims for a comeback. Actor Vijay's TVK emerges as a significant challenger, particularly among younger voters. Key constituencies like Kolathur and Perambur are witnessing intense multi-cornered contests, setting the stage for a decisive outcome.

O Panneerselvam, a former AIADMK chief minister, campaigns as the DMK's candidate in Bodinayakkanur after being denied re-entry into his old party. His shift, marked by posters of Stalin and a new political alignment, faces skepticism from voters accustomed to AIADMK loyalty, raising questions about his ability to win over his traditional base.

Congress faces a tough fight in Sriperumbudur, a seat deeply tied to Rajiv Gandhi's legacy. Incumbent K Selvaperunthagai, now TNCC president, struggles with voter complaints about his absence. AIADMK's K Palani leverages his accessibility and past development work, while TVK's candidate, though dismissed by rivals, banks on star power. Selvaperunthagai defends his limited constituency visits, citing broader responsibilities.

Political candidates are actively engaging in religious ceremonies and consulting astrologers. They are booking special prayers, performing rituals, and seeking auspicious timings for campaign activities. This practice spans across various parties and religious institutions, including temples, churches, and dargahs. Candidates believe these spiritual efforts will enhance their chances of winning elections.

Piyush Goyal stated that the NDA will form an AIADMK-led government in Tamil Nadu if they win, with the final decision on the government's nature to be made post-election. He emphasized collaborative development and dismissed any alliance with actor Vijay, asserting the people will wisely elect Edappadi Palaniswami as CM.

Four Tamil Nadu constituencies, Vedasandur, Sriperumbudur, Sholavandan, and Ramanathapuram, have consistently elected candidates from the winning alliance. This year, major parties are fielding incumbent MLAs or past winners in these bellwether seats, setting up direct rematches. This strategic approach aims to leverage historical voting patterns for electoral success.

The anticipated consolidation of Thevar votes in southern districts has fragmented, with key leaders aligning with different parties. This political realignment occurs as AIADMK seeks to regain ground, while DMK strengthens its position by inducting expelled AIADMK leaders. The presence of new political entities and community votes further complicates the electoral landscape.

BJP is seeking a swap of five constituencies with AIADMK to accommodate key leaders like K Annamalai, amid internal protests over seat allocation. Cadres are questioning the choice of constituencies, with concerns that BJP candidates are being placed in DMK strongholds. AIADMK also faces internal dissent regarding seat distribution.

In a bold move ahead of the elections, DMK has rolled out its roster of 164 candidates, blending experienced stalwarts with more than 60 fresh entrants eager to make their mark. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin championed the 'mega mega alliance' during the campaign kickoff, setting sights on the western region.

BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran shifted his constituency from Tirunelveli to Sattur for the upcoming elections, amidst party cadre discontent over difficult seats allocated by AIADMK. Several segments where BJP had been active were not allotted, while strongholds of DMK ministers were given instead. AIADMK cadre also expressed unhappiness over seat allocations to BJP.

Challenging gender norms in Tamil folk arts, P. Senrayaperumal, a male performer, embodies female roles in Raja Rani Attam, while Thilagavathi Palani, a woman, takes on male characters in Kattaikkuttu. Both artists navigate societal prejudices and economic hardships, using their art to express powerful narratives and personal struggles.