In the nostalgic haze of the early 1990s, amidst the absence of internet and mobile phones, Loyola College’s campus in Madras served as the backdrop for the humble beginnings of a young man destined for stardom. Vijay, the unassuming son of director S.A. Chandrasekhar, embarked on his cinematic journey with tentative steps, balancing his academic pursuits with his burgeoning passion for the silver screen.
In those days, latecomers would hastily ascend the stairs of the college, clutching admit slips from the dean’s office, while professors enforced punctuality with strict measures. Amidst the hustle and bustle, Vijay quietly navigated his way to his B.Sc. Visual Communication classes, embodying the essence of a “boy next door” despite his lineage in the film industry.
As Vijay ventured into Kollywood with his debut in “Naalaiya Theerpu,” his on-screen presence exuded an adolescent curiosity that resonated with audiences. Despite the attention from early fans, Vijay remained humble, often retreating to the solace of his studies, albeit with a preference for films over academics.
Meanwhile, another future star, then known as Saravanan, roamed the halls of Loyola unnoticed—Surya, who would later share the screen with Vijay in iconic films like “Nerukku Ner” and “Friends.” However, it was Fazil’s “Kadhalukku Mariyadhai” that catapulted Vijay into the hearts of family audiences, marking the beginning of his meteoric rise to fame.
Over the years, Vijay’s cinematic journey evolved, transitioning from youthful dramas to action-packed blockbusters adorned with punchy dialogues. His appeal transcended Tamil Nadu, captivating audiences in Kerala and beyond, solidifying his status as a pan-Indian icon.
In a remarkable twist of fate, Vijay recently ventured into politics, launching his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Shedding his erstwhile reticence, Vijay now embraces the spotlight with confidence, dancing with abandon and fearlessly voicing his opinions on pressing issues.
As Tamil cinema continues to intersect with politics, Vijay emerges as the latest luminary to tread the path of leadership. Perhaps, in his college days, amidst the sprint to class, Vijay was already laying the groundwork for a future marked by steadfast determination and unwavering commitment—a journey from the corridors of Loyola to the echelons of stardom and beyond.
