📌 Key Points
- RJ Balaji recently met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, describing the experience as ‘unreal’.
- Balaji revealed CM Vijay was initially approached for the lead role in his hit film ‘Karuppu’.
- ‘Karuppu’, starring Suriya and Trisha, has grossed over ₹300 crore worldwide.
- Vijay opted out of the film to pursue politics, eventually becoming Tamil Nadu’s CM.
RJ Balaji shared his ‘unreal’ experience meeting Tamil Nadu CM Vijay. Balaji revealed that Vijay was originally considered for the lead role in his blockbuster film ‘Karuppu’, a role later played by Suriya. This meeting highlights Vijay’s remarkable transition from cinema to state leadership.
Balaji’s Surreal Meeting with CM Vijay
RJ Balaji has shared pictures from a recent meet with Tamil Nadu CM Vijay. His film Karuppu stars Suriya in the lead role.
RJ Balaji’s Suriya and Trisha Krishnan -starrer Karuppu was released in theatres on May 15 to mixed reviews from critics. But the film has performed very well at the box office, crossing ₹ 300 crore worldwide. The director had revealed days after the release that Karuppu was initially planned with Vijay in mind but he chose to retire from acting and join politics. On Tuesday, RJ Balaji met Vijay and shared how ‘surreal’ it felt to see him as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu now.
The ‘Karuppu’ Connection: Vijay’s Original Role
Thank you for everything dearest Vijay sir.”
However, Vijay eventually opted out of the film. Balaji later narrated the script to Suriya, who reportedly loved the concept and also suggested changes that helped shape the final version of the screenplay. Talking about Vijay stepping away from the project, Balaji said, “I felt his reasons were justified. I told him, ‘Sir, I absolutely respect your decision. Thank you so much.’ By then, I had already narrated two stories to him after he asked me if I had something suitable. I considered that itself a huge sign of respect for my work and creativity.”
From Actor to CM: Vijay’s Political Journey
The fantasy action drama revolves around the guardian deity Vettai Karuppu, who disguises himself as a lawyer to fight corruption within a legal system, exploiting a young girl awaiting a liver transplant. Alongside Suriya, the film stars Trisha Krishnan and RJ Balaji, along with Indrans, Natty Subramaniam, Swasika, Sshivada and Supreeth Reddy in key roles.
Last month, C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu in the presence of family members and hundreds of supporters. Meanwhile, his final film as an actor, Jana Nayagan , has remained stalled for more than five months.
The encounter underscores the dramatic shift in Vijay’s career, from a celebrated actor to the Chief Minister. Balaji’s anecdote offers a unique glimpse into the paths not taken and the surreal reality of political power.
