Will Vijay’s Tiruppur roadshow crowd translate into votes?

Big turnout in Kongu belt

A roadshow by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay in Tiruppur district has triggered fresh political chatter, as sizeable crowds gathered in Avinashi and Perumanallur—areas often seen as part of the Kongu region’s traditional political strongholds.

Roadshow plan dropped midway

Vijay travelled from Coimbatore airport via Avinashi to Perumanallur, receiving enthusiastic welcomes from party workers and fans along the route. While a roadshow was planned from the Perumanallur junction to Pooluvapatti, he campaigned briefly at the junction and then returned, cancelling the roadshow.

Supporters and police left disappointed

Supporters who had waited for over five hours in the heat, including families with children, dispersed in frustration after the cancellation. Police personnel deployed from Tiruppur as well as Coimbatore, Erode and Nilgiris districts were also left disappointed, as they had been on duty along the stretch since morning.

Crowd, spending and campaign style raise questions

Observers noted that many attendees appeared to have come at their own expense, unlike typical election gatherings where parties arrange transport and other support. Vendors were seen selling party scarves and whistles, and supporters reportedly bought them. Vijay’s brief address focused on reading out promises without lengthy introductions, and he did not individually introduce the eight candidates present—keeping the campaign centred on his face and the whistle symbol.