Chennai: For generations of Vijay fans, a new film release was more than entertainment. It was a celebration marked by packed theatres, early morning shows, drums, giant cut-outs and fan gatherings. According to media reports, Jana Nayagan, widely described as Vijay’s final film before fully focusing on politics as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, turned that celebration into an emotional farewell.
Fans across Tamil Nadu and overseas said they attended the film not simply to watch another release, but to bid goodbye to an actor whose films had been part of their lives for more than three decades.
Ram Kumar, identified as the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) State Social Media Co-ordinator, said his admiration for Vijay began in childhood and grew stronger after Ghilli (2004).
According to media reports, he believes Vijay’s move into politics was a natural progression after years of public welfare initiatives and organisational work through the Vijay Makkal Mandram.
Another fan, Auditor Ibrahim, said he had followed Vijay since watching Ghilli as a child and described the actor as a constant presence throughout his life. He recalled skipping a university practical examination to watch Theri (2016) on its opening day, later clearing the subject the following year without regretting the decision.
Software engineer Karthik said Vijay’s films influenced his career in an unexpected way. After becoming a fan during Thulladha Manamum Thullum (1999), he eventually began distributing Tamil films in Mexico. According to media reports, he arranged a special screening of Jana Nayagan to ensure overseas fans could watch Vijay’s final film on the big screen.
Fans also reflected on the traditions surrounding Vijay’s releases, including first-day-first-show screenings, social service activities, food distribution drives and blood donation camps organised by fan clubs.
Ram Kumar said supporters have continued feeding nearly 300 people daily through public donations over the past four years. He added that Vijay had reportedly offered financial assistance if required, although supporters said community contributions had been sufficient.
According to media reports, many fans accepted Vijay’s decision to leave cinema, viewing his political career as a larger public responsibility. However, they admitted the emotional impact of knowing there would be no future first-day-first-show celebrations for a new Vijay film.
For many supporters, Jana Nayagan will be remembered not for its box office performance or reviews, but as the final chapter in an era that defined their lives. As per media reports, while the traditional celebrations outside cinemas may come to an end, fans believe their connection with Vijay will continue through his role in public life rather than on the silver screen.
