Actor Shiva Rajkumar compares CM Vijay to tribal rights leader, ex-MLA Narsaiah

Kannada actor Shiva Rajkumar has said he always hoped to see actor-turned-politician Vijay become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Speaking exclusively to India Today while discussing his upcoming Telugu project Peddi, the actor praised Vijay’s charisma and sincerity, saying he saw qualities in him that reminded him of tribal rights leader Gummadi Narsaiah, whom he portrays in an upcoming biopic.

Shiva Rajkumar wanted Vijay to become CM

Shiva Rajkumar was speaking about the film based on Narsaiah’s life, in which he plays the titular role. Narsaiah, a tribal leader from Telangana, served as MLA from the Yellandu constituency between 1983 and 1994, and again from 1999 to 2009. Calling him an inspiration, Shiva Rajkumar said Vijay too carries a similar ability to connect with people and bring change.

Speaking about Narsaiah and Vijay, he said, “I was inspired by Gummadi Narsaiah’s story. I wondered if people can really be like that. It is very rare that we find people like that. Vijay Sir has that charisma. When he stood for the election I was so happy to see. The way he spoke about some things touched me. And I was just wishing for a change. If he comes, it will be good. I was simply wishing that and so beautifully he came. Some people are so sincere that God will see them and answer.”

Vijay is currently serving as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), won the 2026 state elections.

Shiva Rajkumar on actors entering politics

When asked whether the era of film celebrities entering politics was returning to South India, Shiva Rajkumar said it was a positive development, provided the person genuinely had an interest in public service. However, he clarified that he did not see himself entering politics.

“It is very good, and you should actually be interested in that field. I am not in that field. I married Bangarappa’s (Former CM of Karnataka) daughter, Geeta Shivarajkumar, and if she wishes to contest she can, that is why I supported her,” he said.

He further added, “If you ask me if I can serve people, I am serving people now also. I don’t have a system to help throughout the state. However much I can, I am doing. Some fans and others who see me doing this might get inspired and they might help too. It should increase like this.”

The actor will next be seen in Peddi. With Ram Charan in the lead, the sports drama also stars Janhvi Kapoor, and will release globally in theatres on June 4.