India, May 10 -- What's a success story without a hero struggling to find his place in society? Isn't that what countless Kollywood movies have taught us? 51-year-old Vijay had a thriving career in cinema and was even fondly, and perhaps fittingly, called 'Thalapathy' (leader/commander) for years before he announced his political entry. And yet, as he said numerous times during his campaign, he left behind a world of luxury; it was not without hurdles. Five controversies that he faced on his way to becoming the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

It was all hunky dory for Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), till a fateful day on September 27, 2025. A stampede during one of his rallies in Karur left 41 dead and around 100 peopl...