A political rally for Indian actor-turned-politician Vijay ended in tragedy on Saturday when a massive stampede in the southern state of Tamil Nadu left at least 36 people dead and more than 50 others injured, according to local officials. The incident took place in the district of Karur, where Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party was holding a campaign event that drew thousands of supporters. Authorities confirmed that the dead included eight children and 16 women. Hospitals in the area reported receiving dozens of patients with serious injuries, and state officials warned that the death toll could rise further.
Witnesses said the crush began when large crowds surged toward Vijay as he appeared on a campaign vehicle, causing barricades to collapse and trapping people in the narrow space. Videos circulating on social media showed chaotic scenes as supporters tried to push forward, while others fainted or were trampled in the panic. Vijay was seen throwing water bottles to the crowd in an attempt to calm the situation before the rally descended into further chaos.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin described the tragedy as “heartbreaking” and announced compensation of 1 million rupees for the families of those killed. He also ordered an immediate inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the stampede. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and said he was “deeply saddened” by the loss of life.
Vijay, one of India’s most popular film stars who recently launched his political career, issued an emotional statement saying he was “in unbearable pain and sorrow” over the deaths of his supporters. “My heart is broken,” he wrote on social media, extending condolences to the families of those killed.
Emergency services rushed ambulances and medical teams from nearby districts to Karur as news of the disaster spread. State lawmaker Senthil Balaji said the situation overwhelmed local crowd control measures, and officials are now reviewing whether safety lapses contributed to the tragedy.
The stampede has cast a shadow over Vijay’s fledgling political movement, which has drawn huge crowds since its launch earlier this year. Analysts noted that while his popularity is undeniable, Saturday’s disaster is likely to raise questions about the planning and safety of mass political gatherings in India, where overcrowding at rallies and festivals has often led to deadly incidents.