Ajith Kumar starrer Mankatha has returned to cinemas after a 15-year hiatus. The film, directed by Venkat Prabhu, was re-released on January 23, perfectly
timed for the upcoming Republic Day weekend. This Tamil action-thriller features a cast that includes Arjun Sarja, Trisha Krishnan, Lakshmi Rai, Anjali, Andrea Jeremiah, Ashwin Kakumanu, Vaibhav Reddy, among others. The enthusiasm surrounding its return has been so significant that it has surpassed Thalapathy Vijay's re-released Ghilli and poses a challenge to new releases. Amidst the excitement, a video has gone viral showing a Vijay supporter being assaulted for displaying a flag of the Tamil star's political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), during the film screening.
Ajith Kumar Fans Assault on Vijay's Supporter
In the trending video, one individual is seen being attacked by a group of others. Eventually, the crowd rips his shirt and forces him out of the cinema while others cheer on. The footage originates from Pandian Cinemas in Karaikudi, with a caption indicating that an Ajith supporter assaulted a Vijay supporter for waving a TVK flag inside the cinema. There was no particular motive or rivalry behind the altercation; the man was attacked simply for holding Vijay's party flag, targeted by Thala fans.
New video of Vijay fans getting beaten by Thala fans for waving party flag for reels during #Mankatha to irritate Ajith fans.
Only Ajith fans and Rajini fans know the method to cure delusional Tharkuri #Vijay fans mental illness.#JanaNayagan pic.twitter.com/R0wUBDGB1z— மிஸ்டர்.உத்தமன் (@MrUthaman) January 24, 2026
In another clip, barricades were erected inside a theatre to manage Ajith's fans. Security personnel were also visible near the barricades, ensuring that fans remained at a distance from the screen as they celebrated and tossed confetti.
தமிழ்நாடு முழுக்க இதான் நிலமை...😈🤞#Mankatha pic.twitter.com/UPaxhNPJsD
— AJITHKUMAR FANS CLUB (@ThalaAjith_FC) January 24, 2026
'Fan Rivalry' Between Ajith and Vijay
The competition between Ajith Kumar and Thalapathy Vijay, often likened to the legendary rivalry of MGR and Sivaji Ganesan, is largely driven by box office performance and fan loyalty rather than personal animosity. Both actors are among the most beloved figures in the Tamil film industry, enjoying tremendous affection from their fans. While each brings distinct qualities to their performances and showcases their unique personalities through their films, fans frequently create a rivalry between them, leading to fan conflicts.
Previously, there were rumors suggesting that Ajith disapproved of Vijay entering politics. However, the actor and racing enthusiast addressed these speculations, stating, "Some individuals are fabricating stories and fostering misunderstandings between Vijay and me, which leads to fan confrontations. It would be best if these troublemakers kept quiet...I have always wished the best for Vijay."
