Actor Vijay Criticized by Muslim Body for Iftar Event, Fatwa Issued

In a significant turn of events, the All India Muslim Jamaat has issued a fatwa against TVK chief Vijay following a controversial Iftar event he hosted in Chennai. The fatwa comes after accusations that the actor-turned-politician's actions were disrespectful to Muslim traditions and community values.

The Iftar Event Controversy

The controversy surrounding Thalapathy Vijay began after he organized an Iftar party on March 8, 2025, at the YMCA grounds in Chennai. The event was part of a political gathering for his party, Tamil Nadu Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), where Vijay participated in a public namaz and broke his fast with the attendees. At first glance, this seemed like a positive gesture of solidarity with the Muslim community, but reports quickly surfaced claiming that Vijay invited people involved in alcohol consumption and gambling to the event.

This raised concerns among some members of the Muslim community, who felt that the sanctity of the holy month of Ramadan and the importance of the Iftar party was compromised by the presence of these individuals.

Maulana Razvi’s Criticism and Fatwa

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi, the National President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, expressed his disapproval of Vijay’s actions. Razvi cited that, in his films, Vijay had often portrayed Muslims in a negative light, associating them with terrorism and violence. He accused the actor of engaging in political opportunism by attempting to win over Muslim voters while simultaneously undermining their values.

Razvi also criticized the Iftar event for inviting people who, according to him, were not observing the rules of Ramadan, such as alcohol drinkers and gamblers. In response to this, Razvi issued a fatwa, urging Muslims in Tamil Nadu to distance themselves from TVK chief Vijay and to avoid supporting his political activities. The fatwa also discouraged Muslims from attending any future events organized by him.

Vijay’s Political and Film Career Under Scrutiny

The controversy surrounding the Thalapathy Vijay Iftar event comes at a time when Vijay is attempting to expand his political influence through his TVK party. While he has expressed his intentions of fostering unity and harmony among Tamil Nadu’s diverse communities, his actions during the Iftar event have raised questions about his true commitment to Muslim values.

In addition to his controversial films, where he has been accused of negatively depicting Muslims, his recent efforts to connect with the Muslim community are now under scrutiny. Critics argue that these gestures, like hosting an Iftar event or wearing a skullcap, are simply political maneuvers designed to secure votes from minority groups.

Reactions from the Muslim Community

The fatwa issued by Maulana Razvi has sparked debates among Tamil Nadu’s Muslim community. Many believe that the fatwa is justified given the nature of Vijay’s film portrayals and the controversial guests at the Iftar gathering. On the other hand, some feel that the fatwa could have been avoided and that Vijay’s intent was not malicious.

The Tamil Nadu Sunnat Jamath, a Muslim group in Chennai, also filed a formal police complaint about the Iftar event. They claimed that the event, with its mix of individuals who were neither fasting nor adhering to Islamic practices, was an insult to Muslims.

Vijay’s Response to the Fatwa

As of now, Vijay has not publicly responded to the fatwa or the backlash surrounding his Iftar event. However, his supporters maintain that his gesture was in good faith, aimed at building bridges between communities. They argue that Vijay's actions reflect his desire to bring people together, despite the controversy that has arisen from this particular incident.

Impact on Vijay's Political Career

The fatwa against TVK chief Vijay has placed a cloud over his political ambitions. While Vijay enjoys a massive following due to his successful film career, this controversy has created a divide within Tamil Nadu’s Muslim community. The fatwa and subsequent protests may alienate Muslim voters who could have supported him, especially as he continues his political journey.

Despite the controversy, Vijay’s political career is not over yet, but this episode will likely have significant consequences. How he responds to the fatwa and whether he can regain the trust of the Muslim community will determine the trajectory of his political future.