Fatwa Issued Against TVK Leader Vijay Over Iftar and Film Controversy

Tamil actor and political leader Vijay, president of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), is facing strong criticism from a prominent Muslim cleric following an Iftar event held earlier this Ramadan. The event, combined with past allegations about his portrayal of Muslims in films, has led to the issuance of a fatwa by a leading Sunni Islamic group.

Religious Group Issues Fatwa Against Vijay

The All India Muslim Jamaat (AIMJ), headed by Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, has formally issued a religious decree advising the Muslim community to dissociate from Vijay and his political outfit, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. According to the group, the actor’s films have often painted Muslims in a negative light, linking them to terrorism and violence.

Backlash Over Iftar Participation

At the center of the controversy is an Iftar event organized by Vijay on March 8 at the YMCA Grounds in Chennai. While intended as a gesture of goodwill during the holy month, the gathering attracted criticism after reports emerged that people involved in drinking and gambling were among the attendees — behavior seen as contradictory to the spiritual sanctity of Ramadan.

Community leaders alleged that the Iftar was mismanaged and that it included individuals not observing Islamic practices, causing offense among local Sunni Muslims. Complaints were subsequently filed with local authorities regarding the conduct of the event.

Political Moves Under Scrutiny

This religious backlash comes at a politically sensitive time for Vijay. As he gains visibility in the public sphere through TVK, the fatwa could potentially alienate a significant portion of the electorate. Critics argue that Vijay’s recent religious outreach efforts, such as attending the Iftar while wearing traditional Muslim attire, are politically motivated attempts to win minority support.

Furthermore, Vijay has recently taken legal steps by filing a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025, signaling deeper engagement with national legal and political issues.

What This Means for TVK and Vijay’s Political Aspirations

The controversy could impact Vijay’s political momentum, particularly among Muslim voters in Tamil Nadu. Religious leaders have openly advised followers to avoid associating with him or endorsing his party. For TVK, which is still in its formative political phase, this backlash may pose significant reputational challenges ahead of any future electoral bids.