The return of Tamil superstar and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Thalapathy Vijay to Chennai on Sunday night turned chaotic and dangerous, as a massive, uncontrolled crowd of fans led to the actor tripping and falling. The incident, captured on video, has sparked widespread outrage and serious questions about the security arrangements for the high-profile figure in his home state.
Chaotic Scenes at Chennai Airport
The 51-year-old actor, whose real name is Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, had just arrived at Chennai International Airport following a successful trip to Malaysia for the audio launch of his upcoming and reportedly final film, Jana Nayagan (titled Jan Neta in Hindi). As he exited the terminal, an overwhelming gathering of fans surged forward to catch a glimpse of their idol.
The security detail appeared unable to manage the massive crowd, leading to a situation where Vijay was physically mobbed. In the ensuing chaos, the actor lost his footing, stumbled, and fell to the ground while trying to get into his car. He was quickly helped up and escorted away, but the visual of the superstar falling due to the uncontrolled surge sent shockwaves through his fan base and the public.
Netizens Fume: Contrast with Malaysian Security
Social media erupted with concern and anger, with fans and netizens drawing a stark contrast between the security provided overseas and in Tamil Nadu. Users pointed to the Jana Nayagan audio launch event at Bukit Jalil Stadium in Malaysia on December 27, which drew a record-breaking crowd of nearly one lakh (100,000) fans and was managed with what was described as "tight security." The event even entered the Malaysian Book of Records.
"Malaysia managed 1 lakh+ crowd with tight security for #ThalapathyVijay. But in TN, our own state couldn’t even ensure basic security. Is this negligence or ignorance? He deserves proper Z+ security," wrote one disappointed user, tagging private security firm Gentur Security.
Another comment highlighted the potential risk: "What if someone stabbed in the crowd? Such a poor management puts life at risk." Many fans demanded that private security agencies like Gentur be deployed immediately, arguing that if state and central police cannot guarantee protection, alternatives must be sought.
Political Figure and Superstar: A Dual Security Challenge
The incident underscores the unique security challenge posed by Vijay's dual identity as one of Tamil cinema's biggest stars for over three decades and now as the chief of a political party, TVK. Critics argued that the current security protocol is insufficient for a person of his stature and public appeal.
"TVK Chief Vijay Who is Not Only Political Leader He is One Of The Superstar in Indian Film Industry... Please Increase High level Security... Our State TN Govt is Totally Failed," stated a user, tagging central government officials and security forces.
The consensus among the online commentary was one of deep concern, with calls for authorities to prioritize his safety. "Thalapathy Vijay’s security really very poor. Who is responsible for this lapse? Fans are concerned. The world is watching," read another poignant comment. The debate continues as to whether the airport chaos was a result of overwhelming fan craze or a clear failure of security planning and execution.
