TVK's stunning win in Tamil Nadu: Is this the end of the road for Dravida parties?

In an exclusive interview with India Today, DMK spokesperson Salem Dharanidharan discussed the political landscape in Tamil Nadu following actor Vijay's stunning electoral victory with his party, TVK and if this means the end of the road for Dravida parties. Addressing questions about the defeat of traditional Dravidian parties like the DMK and AIADMK, Dharanidharan attributed the mandate to an anti-establishment wave driven by youth unemployment and high internet penetration. He stated, "This vote is actually for anti-establishment." Dharanidharan stated that the Dravidian movement has not failed, adding that it successfully taught citizens to aspire and question the status quo. He recognised the need for the DMK to adapt to changing demographics, noting, "We will go to the drawing board and see what we have to do to connect with the Gen Z." Furthermore, he mentioned that Vijay's success demonstrates a shift in political dynamics, pointing out that the politics of money, caste, and grassroots have been defeated. Dharanidharan said that the DMK will reinvent itself and return stronger in future elections.