Ganeshotsav 2026: Chennai witnessed a unique Ganesh Chaturthi celebration as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay-themed Vinayagar idols were installed in the RK Nagar area, blending Tamil cinema with the festivities.
The idols have been designed in styles associated with the Chief Minister, popularly known as Thalapathy Vijay. Some of the statues also draw inspiration from his popular 2004 film Ghilli, in which he played the character Saravanavelu.
Visuals from the area showed Ganesha idols dressed in black suits and posed in styles associated with Vijay. One of the idols was seen in a pose linked to a recent political gesture by Vijay, adding a political touch to the otherwise festive installations.
VIDEO | Chennai: Tamil Nadu CM Vijay-themed Vinayagar (Ganesha) idols installed in Chennai’s RK Nagar, idols inspired by his film ‘Ghilli’.
(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/d8jp61yd2p) pic.twitter.com/E7ypxDMpZc
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 14, 2026
Vijay’s fans and supporters have referred to the statues as “Vijay Vinayagar”, with pictures and videos of the idols gaining attention on social media platforms.
It reflects the influence of Tamil cinema on public celebrations in the state, where festival idols are often designed around popular films, actors and current events.
In previous years, Ganesha idols inspired by films and themes such as Baahubali and the Indian armed forces have also attracted attention.
Meanwhile Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar extended greetings and said the festival should strengthen unity and harmony.
Vijay also wished people on the occasion, expressing hope that the festival would bring new hopes, joy, peace and prosperity to every family.
